'anguish' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'angustia,' where 'angust-' meant 'narrow' or 'tight.'

'angustia' transformed into the Old French word 'angoisse,' and eventually became the modern English word 'anguish' through Middle English.

Initially, it meant 'narrowness or tightness,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'severe pain or distress.'