Definition of derby

The origin of the word "derby" is tied to John "Derby"RET, the 14th Earl of Derby, an English nobleman and politician. In the 18th century, he was a prominent figure in British horse racing, and in 1751, he established the Oaks Stakes and the Derby Stakes, now known as the Epsom Derby, at Epsom Downs racetrack in Surrey, England. Over time, the term "Derby" became synonymous with the famous horse race, and eventually, it was used to describe other sports equipment, such as hats (Derby hats) and, later, ice hockey (Derby games). Additionally, some cities, like Derby, Queensland, Australia, and Derby, Kansas, USA, were named after the Earl of Derby. Today, the word "Derby" is widely used in various contexts, from racing and fashion to popular culture.