Rancho \Ran"cho\, n.; pl. {Ranchos}. [Sp., properly, a mess,
mess room. Cf. 2d {Ranch}.]
1. A rude hut, as of posts, covered with branches or thatch,
where herdsmen or farm laborers may live or lodge at
night.
2. A large grazing farm where horses and cattle are raised;
-- distinguished from hacienda, a cultivated farm or
plantation. [Mexico & California] --Bartlett.