The concept of "the word" in the sense you're referring to is associated with the Bible, specifically the Gospel of John. The phrase refers to the divine Logos or Word of God. The term gained prominence in the early Christian era, but its usage and interpretation have varied throughout history and may have different meanings depending on the religious or philosophical context. Beyond the biblical usage, the popularity of the word "word" itself in general language and communication is challenging to pinpoint as its usage spans millennia.