'recourse' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'recursus,' where 're-' meant 'back' and 'cursus' meant 'course or running.'

'recursus' transformed into the Old French word 'recours,' and eventually became the modern English word 'recourse' through Middle English.

Initially, it meant 'a running back or return,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'a source of help or option.'