Where did the term hat trick originate?

Answer 1

The term "hat trick" was first used in 1858 to describe the accomplishment of H. H. Stephenson; taking three wickets in three consecutive balls. A collection was made, as per tradition for an outstanding achievement by a sportsman, and a hat bought with the proceeds was presented to him. While not the first to do this, it is the first recorded instance of such an performance being called a hat trick.