trail boss

noun

1. (in Western U.S.) a person responsible for driving a herd of cattle.

Word History and Origins

Origin of trail boss¹

An Americanism dating back to 1885–90

Example Sentences

During spring break, I was the trail boss for an environmental cleanup crew.

From The Guardian

“I’ve talked to all but one of the trail bosses and everything has been good so far. The weather has been perfect for a change,” said TW.

From Washington Times

On Saturday, after a breakfast provided by the “trail boss”, the club would have an information session, often about RV maintenance issues.

From Forbes

The trail boss had been out at the remuda with the jingler when the trouble began.

From Project Gutenberg

On meeting the travelers, the trail boss, being short-handed, had offered all three of them a berth.

From Project Gutenberg