'chickweed' originates from Old English, specifically the word 'cicwudu,' where 'cic' meant 'chick' and 'wudu' meant 'wood or plant.'

'cicwudu' transformed into the Middle English word 'chikewede,' and eventually became the modern English word 'chickweed.'

Initially, it referred to a plant eaten by chickens, but over time it evolved into its current meaning of a common weed.