'albatross' originates from Portuguese, specifically the word 'alcatraz,' where 'al-' meant 'the' and 'qatara' meant 'to draw water.'

'alcatraz' transformed into the Spanish word 'albatros,' and eventually became the modern English word 'albatross' through Middle English.

Initially, it meant 'a type of seabird,' but over time it evolved into its current metaphorical meaning of 'a burden or hindrance.'