'fivefold' originates from Old English, specifically the word 'fīfald,' where 'fīf' meant 'five' and '-fold' meant 'times or layers.'

'fīfald' transformed into the Middle English word 'fifefold,' and eventually became the modern English word 'fivefold.'

Initially, it meant 'five times or layers,' and this meaning has largely remained the same in modern usage.