'begin' originates from Old English, specifically the word 'beginnan,' where 'be-' was an intensifier and 'ginnan' meant 'to open or cut open.'

'beginnan' transformed into the Middle English word 'beginnen,' and eventually became the modern English word 'begin.'

Initially, it meant 'to open or cut open,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'to start or commence something.'