'pale' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'pallidus', where 'pall-' meant 'pale, wan'.

'pale' changed from Old French word 'pal(e)' and Middle English 'pale' and eventually became the modern English word 'pale'. (Note: a separate noun 'pale' 'stake' derives from Latin 'palus'.)

Initially, it meant 'pale, wan' (from Latin 'pallidus'), and over time it preserved that basic sense of 'lacking color' while also developing extended senses such as 'feeble' or 'faint' when used adverbially ('palely').