'inlet' originates from Middle English, specifically the word 'inleten,' where 'in-' meant 'into' and 'leten' meant 'to let or allow.'

'inleten' transformed into the modern English word 'inlet' through gradual phonetic changes.

Initially, it meant 'to allow entry,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'a small arm of the sea or an opening for fluid.'