How to Say “Cowboy” in Navajo

By Douglas Juan • Updated October 4, 2026

bigháńlíní

The Navajo word for 'cowboy' is bigháńlíní.

The term refers to a person who tends cattle.

Meaning: person who tends cattle (noun)

Did you know?

The word bigháńlíní is derived from the word for 'English' or 'Anglo', rather than the words for 'cow' or 'boy'.
In Navajo culture, the introduction of cattle and the 'cowboy' lifestyle shifted traditional wealth markers from sheep and goats to cows.
Because the term is linked to 'English' people, using it can carry a connotation of a way of life that is distinctly external to traditional Navajo pastoralism.

Examples in context

Bigháńlíní éí yáʼátʼéé.
The cowboy is good.

Example conversation

Michelle and Brandon are looking at a photo of a rancher.

Michelle

Hózhǫ́ǫ́go bigháńlíní tʼáá ákótʼé.
He looks like a real cowboy.
Brandon

Ááʼą́ą́', bigháńlíní tʼéí níhií.
Yes, he is a cowboy.
Michelle

Bigháńlíní łichííʼ tʼéigo hólǫ́.
The cowboy has a red hat.
Brandon

Tʼáá ákótʼé, Brandon tʼéí níhií.
That is true, it is Brandon.

⭐Share⭐ to appreciate human effort 🙏

About The Author

Douglas Juan

Hello, I am Douglas, an absolute Navajo language enthusiast. My passion for this beautiful language, coupled with my love for sharing knowledge, has inspired me to write numerous guides on common phrases and words. I enjoy exploring words from "Angel" to "Yucca" and everything in between. In my leisure time, you'll often find me experimenting with traditional Navajo recipes, strolling amidst nature, or enjoying a robust cup of traditional Navajo tea. Apache is spoken not far from Navajo, and it has become another language close to my heart, so you will now find my guides to Apache here too. Haash yinilyeii (that's how I say 'that's me' in Navajo)!

Douglas JuanHelp make this guide better. Spot a mistake, know another way to say it, or have an example from real life? Share it below.

0 Comments

Newest

Oldest Most Voted