'untie' originates from Old English, specifically the word 'untīgan,' where 'un-' meant 'not' and 'tīgan' meant 'to tie.'

'untīgan' transformed into the Middle English word 'untien,' and eventually became the modern English word 'untie.'

Initially, it meant 'to not tie,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'to release or loosen a tie or knot.'