'abord' originates from Old French, specifically the word 'aborder,' where 'a-' meant 'to' and 'border' meant 'edge or border.'

'aborder' transformed into the Middle English word 'aborden,' and eventually became the modern English word 'abord.'

Initially, it meant 'to come to the edge or border,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'to approach or come alongside, especially a ship.'