q: What's a maverick?

a: My first thought after hearing the word maverick *wink* is someone who goes against the grain; not afraid to ruffle feathers.

A friend responded that he thought a maverick was someone who "flew under the radar, a 'lone ranger'."

American Heritage Dictionary defines maverick as:

n.

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.

adj. Being independent in thought and action or exhibiting such independence: maverick politicians; a maverick decision.


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

...I guess we're both right.

However, the word also makes me think of Kenny Loggins' "Danger Zone"...I have no earthly idea why. *wink*