'apercu' originates from French, specifically the word 'aperçu' (the past participle of 'apercevoir'), where 'apercevoir' ultimately derives from Latin elements related to 'apprehendere' (ad- + prehendere).

'apercu' entered English from French 'aperçu' (past participle of 'apercevoir'); French 'apercevoir' developed from Old French forms and ultimately from Latin 'apprehendere', and the word was adopted into modern English largely with its French spelling and sense.

Initially it meant 'a perception or a glimpse'; over time it came to be used for 'a brief summary or sketch' and for 'a concise, perceptive remark', which are common modern senses.