An Etymological Dictionary of Astronomy and Astrophysics

1a) To put the hand, finger, etc., on or into contact with (something) to feel it.

1b) To come into contact with and perceive (something), as the hand or the like does.

2. The act or fact of touching (Dictionary.com)

Etymology (EN): M.E. to(u)chen, from O.Fr. tochier “to touch, hit; deal with” from V.L. *toccare “to knock, strike” as a bell.

Etymology (PE): Basâvidan, ultimately from Proto-Ir. *apa-sau-, from *sau- “to rub;” cf. Sogdian ps’w- “to touch;” Pers.

• sâyidan, variants sâbidan, sudan “to bruise, file, touch” pasâvidan “to touch” (Khotanese sauy- “to rub.”