'diver' originates from the Old English word 'dyfan', which meant 'to dip or plunge'.

'dyfan' transformed into the Middle English word 'diven', and eventually became the modern English word 'dive', from which 'diver' is derived.

Initially, it meant 'to dip or plunge', but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'a person or bird that dives'.