'server' originates from Middle English and Old French, formed as an agent noun from the verb 'serve' plus the suffix '-er'; the verb 'serve' ultimately comes from Latin 'servire' (to serve).

'server' changed from Middle English forms such as 'servere' (influenced by Old French 'servir') and eventually became the modern English word 'server'.

Initially, it meant 'one who serves' (a person performing service); over time its use expanded by analogy to include devices and programs that 'provide services' (e.g., computer servers).