'thriller' originates from the English word 'thrill,' which comes from the Old English 'thyrlian,' meaning 'to pierce or penetrate.'

'thrill' evolved from the Old English 'thyrlian' to the Middle English 'thrillen,' eventually becoming the modern English word 'thrill.'

Initially, it meant 'to pierce or penetrate,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'to excite or stimulate.'