'alexia' originates from Greek, specifically the word 'alexein,' where 'a-' meant 'without' and 'lexis' meant 'word' or 'speech.'

'alexein' transformed into the French word 'alexie,' and eventually became the modern English word 'alexia' through Middle English.

Initially, it meant 'without words or speech,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'loss of the ability to read.'