'actuate' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'actuare,' where 'actu-' meant 'to drive' or 'to set in motion.'

'actuare' transformed into the French word 'actuer,' and eventually became the modern English word 'actuate' through Middle English.

Initially, it meant 'to set in motion,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'to put into action or motion.'