'aventail' originates from Old French, specifically the word 'aventaille', where 'avant' meant 'front' and the suffix '-aille' formed a noun indicating a piece or collection.

'aventail' changed from Old French 'aventaille' into Middle English 'aventail(e)' and eventually became the modern English word 'aventail'.

Initially, it meant 'a front piece (of protection)', but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'a curtain of mail attached to a helmet to protect the neck and shoulders'.