A maverick is a term used to describe a person or an animal that acts independently and free from constraints or organizational guidelines). The term originated from Samuel Maverick, a rancher who did not brand his cattle, allowing them to roam freely). In the American Old West, the term was used to describe unbranded cattle). Nowadays, the term is used to describe people who think and act independently of and differently from others. A maverick is often considered unconventional, independent, and a nonconformist.