'GP' is an abbreviation for 'General Practitioner', which originates from the Latin word 'generalem', meaning 'of a whole kind, class, or group'.

The term 'General Practitioner' evolved from the broader term 'practitioner', which was used in the 16th century to describe someone who practices a profession.

Initially, it referred to any professional practitioner, but over time it became specific to medical doctors providing general care.