'access' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'accessus', where 'ad-' meant 'toward' and 'cedere' meant 'to go'.

'accessus' transformed into the Old French word 'acces', and eventually became the modern English word 'access' through Middle English.

Initially, it meant 'an approach or entrance', but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'the means or opportunity to approach or enter a place'.