'strive' originates from Old French, specifically the word 'estriver,' where 'es-' meant 'out' and 'triver' meant 'to quarrel or fight.'

'estriver' transformed into the Middle English word 'striven,' and eventually became the modern English word 'strive.'

Initially, it meant 'to quarrel or fight,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'to make great efforts.'