'miscellany' originates from Medieval Latin, specifically the word 'miscellanea', from Latin 'miscellaneus', which is related to 'miscere' meaning 'to mix'.

'miscellany' developed via Medieval Latin 'miscellanea' (neuter plural) and Late Latin 'miscellaneus', entered Middle English as 'miscellany' and became the modern English word 'miscellany'.

Initially it meant 'mixed things' or 'a collection of mixed items', and over time it evolved into the current meanings of 'a varied collection' and 'a compilation of diverse writings'.