'begrudge' originates from Middle English, specifically the word 'grucchen,' where 'grucchen' meant 'to murmur or grumble.'

'grucchen' transformed into the modern English word 'begrudge' through the addition of the prefix 'be-' to indicate a more intense or directed action.

Initially, it meant 'to murmur or grumble,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'to envy or resent someone for something.'