'aslope' originates from Middle English, specifically the phrase 'a slōpe' (a + slope), where the prefix 'a-' meant 'on' or 'in' and 'slope' meant 'a slant or incline.'

'aslope' changed from Middle English 'a slōpe' (written variously as 'aslop', 'aslope') and eventually became the modern English word 'aslope.'

Initially, it meant 'on a slope' (literally on an incline), but over time it evolved into the adjectival and adverbial sense 'slanting' or 'awry.'