'comptroller' originates from Middle English, specifically the word 'countreroller,' where 'countrer' meant 'against' and 'roller' meant 'to roll or list.'

'countreroller' changed from the Old French word 'contreroleur' and eventually became the modern English word 'comptroller.'

Initially, it meant 'one who checks accounts,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'a public official overseeing financial operations.'