'aftermath' originates from Middle English, specifically the word 'aftermath,' where 'after-' meant 'following' and 'math' referred to 'a mowing or cutting of grass.'

'aftermath' changed from the Middle English word 'aftermath' and has retained its form in modern English.

Initially, it meant 'a second crop of grass grown after the first mowing,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'consequences or aftereffects of an event.'