'imminent' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'imminens,' where 'in-' meant 'upon' and 'minere' meant 'to project or overhang.'

'imminens' transformed into the French word 'imminent,' and eventually became the modern English word 'imminent' through Middle English.

Initially, it meant 'overhanging or projecting,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'about to happen.'