'angst' originates from German, specifically the word 'Angst', where the root meant 'fear, anxiety', ultimately from Proto-Indo-European 'angh-' meaning 'tight, painful; to press'.

'Angst' entered English in the early 20th century via German (and Danish/Norwegian usage in psychology and philosophy) and eventually became the modern English word 'angst'.

Initially, it meant 'fear, anxiety' in a general sense; in English it broadened to denote a brooding, often existential anxiety, especially associated with youth or identity.