derbi
/ˈdeɾbi/
The English word 'derby' is translated into Spanish as derbi.
The term derbi refers to any organized race.
Meaning: any organized race (noun)
Is it said differently in some regions?
In certain regions, especially when referring to highly anticipated soccer matches between rival teams, the term El clásico is used to describe a derby.
How do you pronounce it?
/ˈdeɾbi/
Did you know?
- Unlike English, where 'derby' can refer to a type of hat, the Spanish derbi refers exclusively to competitions. To describe the hat, Spanish speakers use the word bombín.
- While derbi describes a rivalry, Spanish fans often use the term picante 'spicy' to describe the atmosphere of a match when the tension between the two cities or teams is particularly high.
- The word derbi is borrowed from English, likely referencing the famous Epsom Derby horse race.
Examples in context
- En la carrera de caballos de hoy, el derby fue muy emocionante.In today's horse race, the derby was very exciting.
- ¡No te pierdas el derbi entre nuestros equipos locales!Don't miss the derby between our local teams!
- El clásico Madrid-Barcelona es uno de los enfrentamientos más emocionantes del año.The Madrid-Barcelona derby is one of the most exciting matchups of the year.
- El derbi de caballos fue muy emocionante.The horse derby was very exciting.
- Ganó el primer premio en el derbi.He won first prize in the derby.
Example conversation
María and Daniel are talking about a local sporting event.
- MaríaDaniel, ¿vas a ir al derbi?Daniel, are you going to the derby?
- DanielSí, María, quiero ver la carrera.Yes, María, I want to see the race.
- MaríaEl derbi empieza a las diez.The derby starts at ten.
- DanielPerfecto, nos vemos allí.Perfect, I'll see you there.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry derbi, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries derbi, CC BY-SA 4.0.
