'abodah' originates from Hebrew, specifically the word 'עֲבוֹדָה', where 'עֲבוֹדָה' meant 'work' or 'service'.

'עֲבוֹדָה' remained largely unchanged as it was adopted into English usage, retaining its original meaning.

Initially, it meant 'work' or 'service', and this meaning has largely remained the same in modern usage.