'gentleman' originates from Middle English, specifically the word 'gentilman', where 'gentil' meant 'noble' and 'man' meant 'man'.

'gentilman' changed from the Old French word 'gentilz hom' and eventually became the modern English word 'gentleman'.

Initially, it meant 'a man of noble birth', but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'a man of good social position or manners'.