'determine' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'determinare,' where 'de-' meant 'off' and 'terminare' meant 'to limit or bound.'

'determinare' transformed into the Old French word 'determiner,' and eventually became the modern English word 'determine' through Middle English.

Initially, it meant 'to set bounds or limits,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'to establish or ascertain something precisely.'