'retch' originates from Old English, specifically the word 'hræcan', where 'hræc-' meant 'to clear the throat'.

'hræcan' changed from Old English word 'hræcan' and eventually became the modern English word 'retch'.

Initially, it meant 'to clear the throat', but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'to make the sound and movement of vomiting'.