maverick

The definition of a maverick is an unbranded animal or someone who doesn’t follow a group’s rules.

(noun)

An example of a maverick is a film director who makes a movie that is completely new and original.

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See maverick in Webster's New World College Dictionary

noun

  1. an unbranded animal, esp. a strayed calf
  2. Informal a person who takes an independent stand, as in politics, from that of a party or group

Origin: after S. Maverick (1803-70), Texas rancher who did not brand his cattle

See maverick in American Heritage Dictionary 4

noun
  1. An unbranded range animal, especially a calf that has become separated from its mother, traditionally considered the property of the first person who brands it.
  2. One that refuses to abide by the dictates of or resists adherence to a group; a dissenter.
adjective
Being independent in thought and action or exhibiting such independence: maverick politicians; a maverick decision.

Origin:

Origin: Possibly after Samuel Augustus Maverick (1803-1870), American cattleman who left the calves in his herd unbranded

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