'growl' originates from Old French, specifically the word 'grouler,' where 'grouler' meant 'to rumble or grumble.'

'grouler' transformed into the Middle English word 'growlen,' and eventually became the modern English word 'growl.'

Initially, it meant 'to rumble or grumble,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'to make a low, guttural sound.'