Where does the word jockey originate from?

The Word "jockey" is believed to originate from the late Middle English term "jockey," which was a diminutive of "jock," a common name for a man or a boy. It was used to refer to a stable boy or someone handling horses, particularly in the context of horse racing. The term likely derives from the Scottish diminutive of "John," reflecting a common name for horse handlers in England. Over time, it evolved to specifically denote professional horse riders participating in races.