'abattis' originates from French, specifically the word 'abattre,' where 'abattre' meant 'to fell or knock down.'

'abattre' transformed into the French word 'abattis,' and eventually became the modern English word 'abattis' through military terminology.

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