What is the term for the study of the origin and evolution of words?

The study of the origin and evolution of words is referred to as etymology. This field specifically focuses on tracing the historical development of individual words, examining aspects such as their roots, prefixes, and how their meanings and forms have changed over time. Etymology not only helps in understanding the linguistic evolution but also sheds light on cultural and historical contexts that influence language.

Phonology, on the other hand, is concerned with the systematic organization of sounds in languages and how they function within particular languages. Semantics deals with the study of meaning—how words and sentences convey meaning in language, focusing more on the interpretation than on their historical development. Lexicology refers to the study of the words and their meanings, but it encompasses a broader scope that includes word structure, usage, and relationships rather than just their origins.

Thus, etymology is the most precise term for the study of the origin and evolution of words, making it the correct choice for this question.