'melody' originates from Greek, specifically the word 'melōidía,' where 'melos' meant 'song' and 'aeidein' meant 'to sing.'

'melōidía' transformed into the Old French word 'melodie,' and eventually became the modern English word 'melody' through Middle English.

Initially, it meant 'a song or tune,' and this meaning has largely remained the same in modern usage.