A maverick
Meaning
A maverick is an independent-minded person who deviates from conventional thinking or behavior.
Origin
The phrase "maverick" originates from Samuel Augustus Maverick, a 19th-century Texas lawyer, politician, and land baron. In 1845, Maverick acquired a herd of unbranded cattle as payment for a debt. Unlike other ranchers who routinely branded their livestock to identify ownership, Maverick was notoriously reluctant to brand his. His cattle roamed freely and distinctively unbranded, soon becoming known as "Maverick's cattle." Any unbranded calf found roaming became simply a "maverick," and the term quickly evolved to describe a person who acts independently, refusing to conform to the usual rules or practices, just like his distinctive, unbranded herd.
Examples
- The young CEO proved to be a maverick, consistently challenging industry norms and introducing groundbreaking innovations.
- Despite pressure from his party, the senator remained a maverick, voting his conscience rather than toeing the party line.