'Lenten' originates from Old English, specifically the word 'lencten', where 'lencten' meant 'spring' or 'the lengthening (of days)'.

'Lenten' changed from the Old English word 'lencten' into Middle English 'lenten' and eventually became the modern English adjective 'Lenten'.

Initially, it meant 'spring' or 'the lengthening (of days)', but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'relating to Lent, the period of fasting and penance before Easter'.