‖Ran″cho (răn″chō̍), n.; pl.Ranchos (–chōz). [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. Bartlett.