'harbinger' originates from Middle English, specifically the word 'herbengar,' where 'herberge' meant 'lodging' and '-er' was an agent suffix.

'herbengar' transformed into the modern English word 'harbinger' through Old French 'herbergeor.'

Initially, it meant 'one who provides lodging,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'one who announces or signals the approach of another.'