'many-sided' originates from the combination of 'many' and 'side', where 'many' meant 'numerous' and 'side' referred to 'aspect or facet'.

'many-sided' evolved from the Old English word 'manig' meaning 'many' and 'sīd' meaning 'side', eventually forming the modern English word 'many-sided'.

Initially, it meant 'having numerous sides or aspects', and this meaning has largely remained the same in modern usage.