'tall' originates from Old English, specifically the word 'getæl,' where 'ge-' meant 'together' and 'tæl' meant 'swift or prompt.'

'getæl' transformed into the Middle English word 'tal,' and eventually became the modern English word 'tall.'

Initially, it meant 'swift or prompt,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'having a greater than average height.'