'achafe' originates from Middle English, specifically the word 'achafen,' where 'a-' meant 'to' and 'chafe' meant 'to rub or irritate.'

'achafen' transformed into the modern English word 'achafe' through gradual phonetic changes.

Initially, it meant 'to rub or irritate,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'to irritate or annoy.'