'lowly' originates from Old English, specifically the word 'lāwlic,' where 'lāw' meant 'low' and '-lic' was a suffix meaning 'like' or 'having the qualities of.'

'lāwlic' transformed into the Middle English word 'lowlī,' and eventually became the modern English word 'lowly.'

Initially, it meant 'having the qualities of being low,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'humble in status or position.'