'high-risk' originates from the combination of 'high,' meaning 'great in amount or degree,' and 'risk,' meaning 'exposure to danger or loss.'

The term 'high-risk' evolved from the individual words 'high' and 'risk,' which have been used in English since the Middle Ages.

Initially, 'risk' meant 'danger or chance of loss,' and 'high' meant 'great in amount.' The combination has maintained its meaning over time.