gau·cho \ˈgau̇(ˌ)chō\noun alsogua·cho\ˈgwä(-\ (-s) Usage:often attributive Etymology: American Spanish gaucho, probably from Quechua wáhcha poor person, orphan : a cowboy or herdsman of the pampas usually of mixed Spanish and Indian descent < gauchos … wearing loose trousers with tight cuffs at the ankles, soft hats, and long wool ponchos — Natalie Raymond > < bright gaucho shirts >