'agist' originates from Old French, specifically the word 'agister,' where 'a-' meant 'to' and 'gister' meant 'to lodge.'

'agister' transformed into the Middle English word 'agisten,' and eventually became the modern English word 'agist.'

Initially, it meant 'to lodge or provide shelter for animals,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'to take in livestock for grazing.'