'greet' originates from Old English, specifically the word 'grētan,' where 'grētan' meant 'to approach, salute, or address.'

'grētan' transformed into the Middle English word 'greten,' and eventually became the modern English word 'greet.'

Initially, it meant 'to approach or address someone,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'to welcome or salute someone.'