'amortize' originates from Middle English, specifically the word 'amortisen,' where 'a-' meant 'to' and 'mort' meant 'death.'

'amortisen' transformed into the modern English word 'amortize' through Old French 'amortir.'

Initially, it meant 'to kill or deaden,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'gradually paying off a debt.'