Definition

Proper noun: * An annual horse race: The Kentucky Derby is a prestigious, annual thoroughbred horse race for three-year-old horses. It is held at Churchill Downs racetrack in Louisville, Kentucky, USA, and is traditionally run on the first Saturday in May.

Usage and Examples

• Proper noun:
  • Winning the Kentucky Derby is the dream of every thoroughbred owner and trainer.
  • She wore an elaborate hat to the Kentucky Derby.
  • The Kentucky Derby is often called "The Most Exciting Two Minutes in Sports" due to its approximate duration.

Advanced Usage

• "The Run for the Roses": This is a famous nickname for the Kentucky Derby, stemming from the blanket of roses draped over the winner.
  • The champion will be draped in roses after winning The Run for the Roses.
• As part of the "Triple Crown": The Kentucky Derby is the first leg of the American Triple Crown of thoroughbred racing, followed by the Preakness Stakes and the Belmont Stakes.
  • A horse must first win the Kentucky Derby to have a chance at the Triple Crown.

Variants and Related Words

• Derby (noun, often capitalized): When used in a U.S. context, "Derby" frequently refers specifically to the Kentucky Derby. More broadly, it can refer to any important horse race.
• Churchill Downs (proper noun): The name of the racetrack in Louisville, Kentucky, where the Kentucky Derby is held.

Synonyms

• Horse race: This is the general category. (Note: "Kentucky Derby" is a specific, unique event, so true synonyms are limited.)
• Thoroughbred race: Specifies the type of horse.

Related Phrases and Idioms

• "Derby Day": Refers specifically to the day on which the Kentucky Derby is held.
  • The city is packed with visitors on Derby Day.
• "Derby contender" / "Derby hopeful": A horse that is a candidate or is expected to compete in the Kentucky Derby.
  • The undefeated colt is the leading Derby contender this year.

Noun

1. an annual race for three-year-old horses; held at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Kentucky