'controller' originates from Old French, specifically the word 'contrerole,' where 'contre-' meant 'against' and 'role' meant 'a roll or list.'

'contrerole' transformed into the Middle English word 'countroller,' and eventually became the modern English word 'controller.'

Initially, it meant 'one who checks accounts,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'one who manages or directs.'