'cut-off' originates from the combination of 'cut' and 'off', where 'cut' meant 'to sever' and 'off' indicated separation.

'cut-off' evolved from the Old English word 'cuttan' and the Old Norse word 'kutta', eventually forming the modern English term 'cut-off'.

Initially, it meant 'to sever or separate', but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'a point or level at which something is no longer effective or applicable'.