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Spanish vernacular

Common Spanish words mixed into English speech.

The influence of the Spanish language was often used as slang throughout the West.[1]

hombre: man

Often used to describe a tough man, outlaw, or man of questionable integrity.

• "Sure is amazing how an hombre can steal a woman blind and make her love him."

— Simmons to Bret Maverick / Stage West

lobo: wolf

An underhanded man interested only in himself.

• "That two-faced lobo sold a map that rightfully is hers."

— Simmons to Sheriff Tibbs / Stage West

loco: crazy

• "What's going on here? You loco?"

— Simmons to Wes Fallon / Stage West

Bart Maverick (left) and Bret Maverick (right) play in a poker game in Grand Ile, Nebraska, 1876.[2]