'vinegar' originates from Old French, specifically the word 'vinaigre,' where 'vin' meant 'wine' and 'aigre' meant 'sour.'

'vinaigre' transformed into the Middle English word 'vinegre,' and eventually became the modern English word 'vinegar.'

Initially, it meant 'sour wine,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'a sour liquid used as a condiment or preservative.'