While the term "hacienda" is often used to refer to large landed estates in general, it specifically refers to a cattle ranch in Spanish America.
Here are some other terms you might encounter:
* Estancia: This term is used in Argentina, Uruguay, and other parts of South America.
* Rancho: This term is commonly used in Mexico and the southwestern United States.
* Fazenda: This term is used in Brazil.
The term "hacienda" evokes a specific image of a large, sprawling ranch with its own workforce, often housing a significant population of people beyond the owner and their family.