The term “origin” comes from the Latin word “origo,” meaning “beginning,” “source,” or “birth.” This, in turn, is derived from the Latin verb “oriri,” which means “to rise” or “to become visible.”
1. Proto-Indo-European (PIE)
The PIE root “er-” or “or-” means “to move” or “to rise.”
2. Latin
From the PIE root, the Latin verb “oriri” developed, meaning “to rise” or “to become visible,” and the noun “origo,” meaning “beginning,” “source,” or “birth.”
3. Old French (c. 9th to 14th century CE)
The Latin term “origo” evolved into Old French “origine,” retaining the meanings of “beginning” or “source.”
4. Middle English (c. 11th to 15th century CE)
The Old French “origine” was adopted into Middle English as “origine,” meaning “beginning” or “source.”
5. Modern English (from 15th century CE to present)
The term “origin” evolved into its current form and pronunciation, referring to the point or place where something begins, arises, or is derived.
The word “origin” reflects the concept of a starting point or source from which something develops or arises, encompassing ideas of beginnings, roots, and sources in various contexts.