'savoir-faire' originates from French, specifically the words 'savoir' and 'faire', where 'savoir' meant 'to know' and 'faire' meant 'to do'.

'savoir-faire' was borrowed into English from French in the 19th century as a set phrase; the French words themselves ultimately derive from Latin roots 'sapere' (to have sense, to know) and 'facere' (to do, to make).

Initially it meant 'to know how to do' or general 'know-how' in French; in English usage it has become specialized to indicate social tact and polished conduct (though the broader sense of skill or know-how is still used).