'oblivion' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'oblivio', where 'ob-' meant 'over' and 'livere' meant 'to be dark or to forget.'

'oblivio' transformed into the Old French word 'oblivion', and eventually became the modern English word 'oblivion' through Middle English.

Initially, it meant 'forgetfulness or being forgotten', and this meaning has largely remained the same in modern usage.