'wretched' originates from Old English, specifically the word 'wrecced,' where 'wrecca' meant 'exile' or 'outcast.'

'wrecced' transformed into the Middle English word 'wrecched,' and eventually became the modern English word 'wretched.'

Initially, it meant 'exiled or outcast,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'unhappy or unfortunate.'