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

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

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