'abeyance' originates from Old French, specifically the word 'abeance,' where 'a-' meant 'toward' and 'bayer' meant 'to gape or yawn.'

'abeance' transformed into the Middle English word 'abeyance,' and eventually became the modern English word 'abeyance.'

Initially, it meant 'a longing or desire,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'a state of temporary disuse or suspension.'