'precarious' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'precarius,' where 'prex' meant 'prayer' or 'entreaty,' indicating something obtained by entreaty or dependent on the will of another.

'precarius' transformed into the French word 'précaire,' and eventually became the modern English word 'precarious' through Middle English.

Initially, it meant 'dependent on the will of another,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'not securely held or in position.'