'dodder' originates from Middle English, specifically the word 'dodderen', where the original form meant 'to tremble or totter' (origin uncertain; likely imitative).

'dodder' changed from the Middle English word 'dodderen' and eventually became the modern English word 'dodder' (with adjectival use as 'doddering').

Initially, it meant 'to tremble or totter'; over time it has come to be used especially to describe frailty or trembling associated with old age ('doddering' meaning feeble or senile).