An Etymological Dictionary of Astronomy and Astrophysics

1a) A group of persons related by common descent or heredity.

1b) A population so related.

2. A contest of speed, as in running, riding, driving, or sailing (Dictionary.com).

Etymology (EN): 1) From M.Fr. race “race, breed, lineage, family,” from It. razza, (cf. Sp. and Port. raza), of unknown origin.

2. M.E. ras(e), from O.N. ras “running, race,” cognate with O.E. ræs “a running, a rush, a leap, jump.”

Etymology (PE): 1) Nežâd, literally “born,” ultimately from Proto-Ir. *nizat-, cf. Av. nizənta- “born,” from → ni- + *zan- “to give birth, to be born,” cognate with âzâd, → free; see also → generate.

2. Tâz, present stem of Tâxtan/tâz- “to run, rush upon, assault;” → surge.