'companion' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'companionem,' where 'com-' meant 'with' and 'panis' meant 'bread.'

'companionem' transformed into the Old French word 'compaignon,' and eventually became the modern English word 'companion' through Middle English.

Initially, it meant 'one who breaks bread with another,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'a person or animal with whom one spends a lot of time.'