'allegiance' originates from Middle English, specifically the word 'allegiaunce,' where 'al-' meant 'to' and 'legiance' meant 'loyalty.'

'allegiaunce' transformed into the modern English word 'allegiance' through Middle English.

Initially, it meant 'loyalty to a lord or sovereign,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'loyalty or commitment to a superior or to a group or cause.'