An unbranded yearling. One Maverick owned large herds of cattle, some of which, escaping, were taken by his neighbours, branded, and called by his name.—John S. Farmer, ‘Americanisms,’ 1889.
1887. Nowadays you don’t dare to clap a brand on a mavorick [sic] even; and if they catch you altering a brand—hell! that’s a penitentiary job.—F. Francis, Jun., ‘Saddle and Moccasin,’ p. 172 (N.E.D.)
