'broker' originates from Old French, specifically the word 'broceor' (or Anglo-Norman 'broker'), where the root referred to a small trader or someone dealing in bargains.

'broker' changed from Middle English 'broker' (used for a small trader or agent) which in turn came from Old French 'broceor'/'brocator', and it eventually became the modern English word 'broker'.

Initially, it meant 'a small-scale trader or hawker,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'an intermediary who arranges transactions or negotiates deals.'