What does the adjective 'rank' describe in roughstock?

The adjective 'rank' in the context of roughstock describes animals that are particularly challenging to ride or handle, typically due to their strength, speed, and unpredictable behavior. When a bull or bronco is described as rank, it indicates that the animal exhibits a high level of difficulty for riders, making the bucking or resistance especially intense. This term is often associated with rodeo culture, where the ability to ride such animals is an indication of a rider's skill level.

It is essential to note that 'rank' does not refer to the quality of the animals in terms of being low-quality or average nor does it pertain to the experience levels of the riders. Instead, it focuses specifically on the level of challenge presented by the roughstock itself, emphasizing the excitement and danger that characterizes professional rodeo events.