The word "wizard" is derived from the Middle English word "wysard" or "wisard", which emerged in the 15th century. It evolved from the Old English word "wīs", meaning "wise", combined with the suffix "-ard", which relates to a person who possesses a certain quality or skill. In this case, "wizard" refers to someone who is wise or possesses great knowledge, particularly in the realm of magic or sorcery. Over time, the spelling of "wysard" transformed into "wizard" in Modern English.