'abrogate' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'abrogare,' where 'ab-' meant 'away' and 'rogare' meant 'to propose a law.'

'abrogare' transformed into the French word 'abroger,' and eventually became the modern English word 'abrogate' through Middle English.

Initially, it meant 'to propose the removal of a law,' and this meaning has largely remained the same in modern usage.