It Originates Form The Words: Ori Means Folding. What is the origin of the word origami? In japanese, the ori part of origami means to fold and the kami part means paper.

Its name derives from japanese words ori (“folding”) and kami (“paper”). The goal is to transform a flat sheet of paper into a sculpture using only folding techniques. By the 17th century, origami had become mainstream in japanese society and was being used for decorative and ceremonial purposes.