'address' originates from Old French, specifically the word 'adresser,' where 'a-' meant 'to' and 'dresser' meant 'arrange.'

'adresser' transformed into the Middle English word 'addresse,' and eventually became the modern English word 'address.'

Initially, it meant 'to arrange or direct,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'to speak to or direct attention to.'