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

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

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