'poach' originates from Middle French, specifically the word 'pochier,' where 'pochier' meant 'to put into a bag or pocket.'

'pochier' transformed into the English word 'poach,' and eventually became the modern English word 'poach' through Middle English.

Initially, it meant 'to put into a bag or pocket,' but over time it evolved into its current meanings of 'cook by simmering' and 'illegally hunt.'