'alert' originates from Italian, specifically the word 'all'erta,' where 'all' meant 'to the' and 'erta' meant 'watchtower.'

'all'erta' transformed into the French word 'alerte,' and eventually became the modern English word 'alert' through Middle English.

Initially, it meant 'to be on guard or watchful,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'being aware of potential danger.'