'ascendant' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'ascendere,' where 'ad-' meant 'toward' and 'scandere' meant 'to climb.'

'ascendere' transformed into the Old French word 'ascendant,' and eventually became the modern English word 'ascendant.'

Initially, it meant 'rising or climbing,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'rising in power or influence.'