'affability' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'affābilis,' where 'ad-' meant 'to' and 'fāri' meant 'speak.'

'affābilis' transformed into the Old French word 'affable,' and eventually became the modern English word 'affability' through Middle English.

Initially, it meant 'easy to speak to,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'friendly and approachable.'