'answer' originates from Old English, specifically the word 'andswaru', where 'and-' meant 'against' and 'swaru' meant 'affirmation'.

'andswaru' changed from Old English to the Middle English word 'answere' and eventually became the modern English word 'answer'.

Initially, it meant 'a sworn statement or affirmation', but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'a response or reply'.