'absolvent' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'absolventem,' where 'ab-' meant 'away' and 'solvere' meant 'to loosen or release.'

'absolventem' transformed into the French word 'absolvent,' and eventually became the modern English word 'absolvent' through Middle English.

Initially, it meant 'one who is released or freed,' and this meaning has largely remained the same in modern usage.