'peat' originates from Old English, specifically the word 'pǣt', where 'pǣt' meant 'peat, turf'.

'peat' changed from the Old English word 'pǣt' through Middle English forms such as 'pete' or 'pet' and eventually became the modern English word 'peat'.

Initially, it meant 'turf or earth used as fuel', and over time this core meaning has remained largely the same while uses and ecological understanding have broadened.