'abatis' originates from French, specifically the word 'abattre,' where 'ab-' meant 'down' and 'battre' meant 'to beat.'

'abattre' transformed into the French word 'abatis,' and eventually became the modern English word 'abatis' through Middle English.

Initially, it meant 'to beat down or fell,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'a defensive obstacle made of felled trees.'