'escape' originates from Old French, specifically the word 'eschaper,' where 'es-' meant 'out' and 'caper' meant 'to take or seize.'

'eschaper' transformed into the Middle English word 'escapen,' and eventually became the modern English word 'escape'.

Initially, it meant 'to take or seize out,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'to break free or avoid.'