'drivel' originates from Old English, specifically the word 'dreflian,' where 'dref-' meant 'to drool or slobber.'

'dreflian' transformed into the Middle English word 'drivelen,' and eventually became the modern English word 'drivel.'

Initially, it meant 'to drool or slobber,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'silly nonsense or trivial talk.'