'abuzz' originates from the combination of the prefix 'a-' meaning 'in a state of' and the word 'buzz', which is an imitative word for the sound of buzzing.

'Buzz' has been used since the 14th century to describe the sound of bees and other insects, and 'abuzz' emerged in the 19th century to describe a state filled with such sounds or activity.

Initially, it meant 'filled with buzzing sounds', but over time it evolved to describe any place filled with activity or excitement.