'gentleman' originates from Middle English, specifically the word 'gentilman', where 'gentil' meant 'noble' and 'man' meant 'person'.

'gentilman' transformed into the modern English word 'gentleman' through the influence of Old French 'gentil' and Latin 'gentilis'.

Initially, it meant 'a man of noble birth', but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'a courteous or honorable man'.