'actionable' originates from the word 'action,' which comes from Latin 'actio,' meaning 'a doing, a driving.'

'actio' transformed into the Old French word 'accion,' and eventually became the modern English word 'action' through Middle English.

Initially, it meant 'a doing or a driving,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'capable of being acted upon or giving reason for legal action.'