What does the cowboy slang 'set by' mean?

In cowboy slang, "set by" typically means to rest or take a break. It refers to the act of stopping for a while, often implying sitting down or pausing one's activities to relax or recuperate. Cowboys would use this term when they wanted to indicate they were taking a break from riding or working, perhaps to eat a meal or simply rest for a bit.

For example, a cowboy might say: "Let's set by this creek for a spell and have some grub," meaning they want to stop by the creek, sit down, and eat.

This phrase reflects the cowboy lifestyle where rest periods were essential during long rides or hard work on the range. It's part of the colorful vernacular that developed among cowboys in the American West.