'bequeath' originates from Old English, specifically the word 'becwethan,' where 'be-' meant 'about' and 'cwethan' meant 'to say or speak.'

'becwethan' transformed into the Middle English word 'bequethen,' and eventually became the modern English word 'bequeath.'

Initially, it meant 'to say or speak about,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'to leave by will.'