human
I'm interested in learning more about the etymology of the word “cowboy.” Can you tell me how it came to be used to describe someone from the West?
assistant
The term cowboy originated in the American Old West, where cowboys were employed as cattle herders and horseback riders. They often wore a wide-brimmed hat called a Stetson, which was originally designed for protection against the sun. In addition, they typically carried a six-shooter revolver or rifle, and a Bowie knife.