An etymologist studies

the earth, rock forms, and strata

the origins of words

the lives of early communities by examining artifacts

the development of language

early human culture and development compared to the present day

An etymologist studies the origins of words. The correct option among all the options that are given in the question is the first option. The other choice given in the question are incorrect and can be easily negated. I hope that this is the answer that you were looking for and it has actually come to your help.

Portugal, he was ordered to sail to the lands of what is now Brazil for his country Portugal.