'hobby' originates from Middle English, specifically the word 'hobyn,' where 'hobyn' referred to a small horse or pony used for riding.

'hobyn' transformed into the modern English word 'hobby,' which initially referred to a small horse and later evolved to mean a pastime or leisure activity.

Initially, it meant 'a small horse or pony,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'a leisure activity.'