'achar' originates from Hindi, specifically the word 'अचार' (achār), where 'अ' (a) meant 'not' and 'चार' (chār) meant 'to eat' or 'to consume'.

'अचार' (achār) transformed into the English word 'achar' through colonial interactions and the spread of South Asian cuisine.

Initially, it meant 'something not to be eaten raw,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'a spicy or savory pickle.'