'fondness' originates from Middle English, specifically the word 'fonne,' where 'fonne' meant 'foolish or silly.'

'fonne' transformed into the modern English word 'fondness' through the addition of the suffix '-ness' to denote a state or quality.

Initially, it meant 'foolishness or silliness,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'affection or liking.'