'arbalester' originates from Old French, specifically the word 'arbalestre', where the element derived from Latin 'arcus' meant 'bow' and 'ballista' meant 'missile-thrower'.

'arbalester' changed from Middle English 'arbalestere' (borrowed from Old French 'arbalestre'), and eventually became the modern English word 'arbalester'.

Initially, it referred to a mechanical missile-throwing engine or large crossbow, but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'a person who uses a crossbow'.