'intercourse' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'intercursus,' where 'inter-' meant 'between' and 'cursus' meant 'running or course.'

'intercursus' transformed into the Old French word 'entrecours,' and eventually became the modern English word 'intercourse' through Middle English.

Initially, it meant 'exchange or communication between people,' but over time it evolved to also include the meaning of 'sexual activity.'