'annunciation' originates from Late Latin, specifically the word 'annuntiatio', where the root 'annuntiare' (from Latin 'nuntius') meant 'to report' or 'to announce'.

'annunciation' changed from Medieval/Old French forms such as 'annonciacion' (and Medieval Latin 'annuntiatio') and entered Middle English, eventually becoming the modern English word 'annunciation'.

Initially, it meant 'a report or announcement', but over time it evolved to include the specific religious sense of 'the announcement to Mary' as well as the more general meaning 'a formal announcement'.