'absolvitory' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'absolvere,' where 'ab-' meant 'from' and 'solvere' meant 'to loosen or release.'

'absolvere' transformed into the Medieval Latin word 'absolutorius,' and eventually became the modern English word 'absolvitory.'

Initially, it meant 'to release from guilt or obligation,' and this meaning has largely remained the same in modern usage.