Here's the breakdown:
* Old Norse "tēm": This meant "offspring" or "brood" and referred to a group of animals born at the same time.
* Middle English "teem": This word evolved from the Old Norse "tēm" and meant "to be full of" or "to abound".
* Modern English "team": Over time, "teem" began to be used figuratively to refer to a group of people working together, especially in sports or other competitive activities. This meaning likely emerged from the idea of a "team" of animals working together, like a pack of wolves hunting.
So, while we often associate "team" with collaboration and shared goals, it actually has its roots in the concept of a group of offspring!