'chancellor' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'cancellarius,' where 'cancellus' meant 'lattice' or 'barrier.'

'cancellarius' transformed into the Old French word 'chancelier,' and eventually became the modern English word 'chancellor' through Middle English.

Initially, it meant 'a court official,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'a senior official or head of a university or government department.'