What does “calico” mean in describing the fabrics of frontier life? – Western Heritage Dictionary

Definition and OriginThe term calico refers to a type of cotton fabric that is often characterized by its printed patterns. Originating from the ancient city of Calicut in India, the…

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What does “rope snag” mean in describing roping difficulties? – Western Heritage Dictionary

Definition and OriginThe term rope snag refers to a situation where a rope becomes entangled or caught on an object during activities that involve roping animals, particularly in rodeo or…

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The use of “devil’s rope” as a nickname for barbed wire – Western Heritage Dictionary

Definition and OriginThe term devils rope is a colloquial nickname for barbed wire, a fencing material designed for containing livestock and delineating boundaries. The origin of this moniker is attributed…

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What does “water trough refill” mean in maintaining herd hydration? – Western Heritage Dictionary

Definition and OriginThe term water trough refill refers to the process of ensuring that water troughs, which are containers used to provide drinking water to livestock, are adequately filled to…

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What does “saddle blanket” signify in protecting horses? – Western Heritage Dictionary

Definition and OriginThe term saddle blanket refers to a specific type of blanket or pad used in equestrian practices, primarily to provide comfort and protection for horses during riding and…

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The origins and use of “cowhand” in everyday cowboy life – Western Heritage Dictionary

Definition and OriginThe term cowhand refers to a person who works with cattle, primarily engaged in herding, caring for, and managing livestock on ranches. Its origins can be traced back…

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What does “rattlesnake” symbolize in cowboy folklore? – Western Heritage Dictionary

Definition and OriginThe term rattlesnake is often associated with the American West and cowboy folklore, serving as a symbol of danger, resilience, and resourcefulness. Rattlesnakes belong to the family Viperidae…

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The story behind “rope dust stretch” as a term for worn-out lariats – Western Heritage Dictionary

Definition and OriginRope dust stretch is a term that has emerged in the western lexicon to describe worn-out lariats, particularly those that have lost their tensile strength and flexibility. This…

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The story behind “saltwater cowboy” as a term for coastal ranchers – Western Heritage Dictionary

Definition and OriginThe term saltwater cowboy refers to coastal ranchers who manage cattle on the marshy and often brackish lands of coastal areas, particularly in places like Texas and Louisiana.…

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