'pike' originates from Old English and Old French, specifically Old French 'pique' and Vulgar Latin *'picca', where 'picca' meant 'pointed stake' or 'point'.

'pike' changed from Vulgar Latin *'picca' to Old French 'pique', then entered Middle English (e.g. 'pike'/'pique') and eventually became the modern English word 'pike'. From the sense 'pointed stake' it developed extended senses (weapon, fish named for its pointed snout, barrier for turnpikes, and peaked hills).

Initially, it meant 'pointed stake', but over time it evolved into current meanings such as 'a long spear (weapon)', 'a pointed freshwater fish (northern pike)', 'a barrier that gave rise to the word turnpike (hence toll road)', and 'a pointed summit'.