'epigram' originates from Greek, specifically the word 'epigramma', where 'epi-' meant 'upon' and 'graphein' meant 'to write'.

'epigram' changed from Greek 'epigramma' into Latin 'epigramma', passed into medieval and Middle English (via Latin/Old French), and eventually became the modern English word 'epigram'.

Initially, it meant 'inscription' (writing upon monuments or objects), but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'a short, witty saying or poem'.