'often-paired' originates from the combination of 'often,' meaning 'frequently,' and 'paired,' meaning 'joined or associated with another.'

'Often' comes from Old English 'oft,' and 'paired' comes from the Old French 'parer,' meaning 'to arrange or prepare.'

Initially, 'often' meant 'frequently,' and 'paired' meant 'joined.' The combined term 'often-paired' retains these meanings, indicating frequent association.