'pore' originates from Old English, specifically the word 'pōr', where the root meant 'opening' or 'small hole'.

'pore' changed from the Old English word 'pōr' into the Middle English form 'pore' and eventually became the modern English word 'pore'.

Initially, it meant 'small opening', and over time the word retained that primary physical sense while also developing figurative senses such as 'to gaze or study intently'.