'abator' originates from Old French, specifically the word 'abatre,' where 'a-' meant 'to' and 'batre' meant 'beat down.'

'abatre' transformed into the Middle English word 'abaten,' and eventually became the modern English word 'abate' and its derivative 'abator.'

Initially, it meant 'to beat down or reduce,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'one who unlawfully seizes property.'