'sprinkler' originates from Middle English, specifically the word 'sprenklen,' where 'sprenk-' meant 'to scatter or sprinkle.'

'sprenklen' transformed into the modern English word 'sprinkle,' and eventually became 'sprinkler' as a noun form.

Initially, it meant 'to scatter or sprinkle,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'a device that sprinkles water.'