Emily Dickinson Lexicon

HOB'BY, n.² [Norm. Fr. hobyn, and alied to the preceding.]

1. A strong active horse, of a middle size, said to have been originally from Ireland; a nag; a pacing horse; a garran. Johnson. Encyc.
2. A stick, or figure of a horse, on which boys ride.
3. Any favorite object; that which a person pursues with zeal or delight.
4. A stupid fellow.