Here's how it evolved:
* 17th Century: In the court of Louis XIV, the king's courtiers were given small cards, called "étiquettes," to inform them of the proper procedures and behavior for various royal events and ceremonies.
* 18th Century: The term "étiquette" began to be used more broadly to refer to the codes of conduct and social behavior expected in high society.
* 19th Century: The word "etiquette" made its way into English and other languages, acquiring its current meaning of "the customary code of polite behavior in society or among members of a particular profession or group."
So, the next time you're thinking about etiquette, remember those little "labels" from the French court!