'bailli' originates from Old French, specifically the word 'bailli' (from the verb 'baillier' meaning 'to administer' or 'to have charge'), ultimately traceable to Medieval Latin roots related to 'baiulus' meaning 'carrier' or 'bearer'.

'bailli' changed from Old French 'bailli' and related medieval forms into various English medieval borrowings (such as Middle English 'baili'/'bailie'); the concept and some forms later gave rise to English 'bailiff', while 'bailli' remained in historical and French-specific contexts.

Initially it was associated with the sense of a 'carrier' or 'one who bears responsibility', but over time it evolved to mean a royal or governmental official charged with local administration and justice.