'protocol' originates from Greek, specifically the word 'prōtokollon,' where 'prōto-' meant 'first' and 'kollon' meant 'glue.'

'prōtokollon' transformed into the Medieval Latin word 'protocollum,' and eventually became the modern English word 'protocol' through Old French.

Initially, it meant 'a first leaf glued to a manuscript,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'a set of rules or procedures.'