derby
UK: ˈdɑːbi | US: ˈdɜːrbi
n. 1. A type of horse race, especially the Epsom Derby in England.
n. 2. A sporting contest or rivalry (e.g., "local derby" in football).
n. 3. A stiff felt hat with a rounded crown (chiefly British).
The word "derby" originates from the Earl of Derby, a British noble title. The Epsom Derby, a famous horse race founded in 1780 by the 12th Earl of Derby, popularized the term. Over time, "derby" expanded to denote other competitive events (e.g., sports rivalries) and, in British English, a style of hat associated with horse-racing culture. The word’s evolution reflects its aristocratic roots and cultural diffusion into broader usage.
The Kentucky Derby is one of the most prestigious horse races in the world.
The Manchester derby between United and City is always fiercely contested.
He tipped his derby hat politely as he passed by.
She won tickets to the annual roller derby championship.
The hatmaker specialized in traditional derbies for formal occasions.