'use' originates from Latin and Old French influence, specifically from the Latin infinitive root 'uti' (to use) and the Old French verb 'user'.

'use' changed from the Old French verb 'user' (from Late Latin 'usare') into Middle English 'usen' and eventually became the modern English word 'use'.

Initially it meant 'to use or employ' (from Latin 'uti'), and over time the core meaning has remained but expanded to include noun senses like 'purpose' or 'function'.