'acerbity' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'acerbitas,' where 'acerbus' meant 'bitter or harsh.'

'acerbitas' transformed into the Old French word 'acerbite,' and eventually became the modern English word 'acerbity' through Middle English.

Initially, it meant 'bitter or harsh in taste,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'sharpness or harshness in manner or tone.'