maverick

A maverick is an animal, usually a form of cattle, that does not carry a brand. It is a word also used to describe a person who acts free from constraints or organizational guidelines. Etymology The term maverick derives from Samuel Maverick, a rancher who among other claims to fame was notorious for not branding his cattle. Other analogous U.S. terms include slick, hairy dick, and, in Spanish-speaking areas of the Southwest, orejano. In other parts of the world different terms are used. In Australia and New Zealand, for example, an unbranded animal is a cleanskin. History