abettor

The story

1. Old French · derived fromabeter
2. Anglo-Norman · derived fromabettour
3. Middle English · inherited fromabettour
4. English todayabettor

From Middle English abettour, from Anglo-Norman abettour, from Old French abeter + -our (“-or”). See abet. By surface analysis, abet + -or.

Words from the same roots

First known use, by meaning

• First attested from 1350 to 1470. One that abets an offender; one that incites, instigates, or encourages.
• Late 16ᵗʰ century. A supporter or advocate.