'arbalist' originates from Old French, specifically the word 'arbaleste', which in turn comes from Medieval Latin 'arcuballista'; the elements 'arcus' meant 'bow' and 'ballista' meant 'missile-thrower'.

'arbalist' changed from Old French 'arbaleste' (and Medieval Latin 'arcuballista') and eventually became the modern English word 'arbalist'.

Initially it often referred to the weapon ('a crossbow') as well as the operator, but over time it has come to be used primarily for 'a person who uses a crossbow'.