'unfortunately' originates from the word 'unfortunate,' which is derived from the Latin word 'fortunatus,' meaning 'lucky' or 'fortunate,' with the prefix 'un-' indicating negation.

'unfortunate' evolved from the Old French word 'infortuné,' which was used in Middle English as 'unfortunate,' eventually leading to the adverb form 'unfortunately.'

Initially, it meant 'not fortunate,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'in a regrettable manner.'