The breed name 'Whippet' has intriguing origins in the 17th century. The term 'whippet' in that era meant 'to move briskly' or 'to move quickly,' aptly reflecting the breed's remarkable speed and agility. This etymology is tied to the breed's development in England, where they were initially bred for hunting and racing. The name also connects to the word 'whip,' reflecting these dogs' swift, whip-like motion when running. Whippets were especially popular in 19th-century England for their racing prowess, embodying their name's essence in both spirit and function.