'stint' originates from Old English, specifically the word 'styntan,' where 'styntan' meant 'to make blunt or dull.'

'styntan' transformed into the Middle English word 'stinten,' and eventually became the modern English word 'stint.'

Initially, it meant 'to make blunt or dull,' but over time it evolved into its current meanings of 'a period of time' and 'to be frugal.'