'fondle' originates from Middle English, specifically the word 'fondlen,' where 'fond' meant 'foolish' or 'foolishly affectionate.'

'fondlen' transformed into the modern English word 'fondle' through gradual phonetic changes.

Initially, it meant 'to act foolishly affectionate,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'to touch gently and affectionately.'