'firearm' originates from Middle English, specifically the word 'fyer arme,' where 'fyer' meant 'fire' and 'arme' meant 'weapon.'

'fyer arme' transformed into the modern English word 'firearm' through the influence of Old French 'arme.'

Initially, it meant 'a weapon that uses fire,' and over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'a portable gun.'