'nurse' originates from Old French, specifically the word 'nourice' (also written 'norice'), where it referred to a woman who suckled or nourished children; this ultimately derives from Latin 'nutrix' (nursing woman) and the verb 'nutrire' meaning 'to nourish'.

'nurse' changed from the Old French word 'nourice' (and Middle English forms such as 'norice' or 'nurse') and eventually became the modern English word 'nurse'.

Initially, it meant 'a woman who nourishes or suckles (a child)'; over time it broadened to include 'one who cares for the sick' and later the specialized professional meaning of 'a trained healthcare worker'.