'outcry' originates from Middle English, specifically the word 'outcrien,' where 'out-' meant 'outside' and 'crien' meant 'to cry or shout.'

'outcrien' transformed into the modern English word 'outcry' through Middle English.

Initially, it meant 'to cry out loudly,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'a public protest or expression of disapproval.'