'assignment' originates from the Latin word 'assignare,' where 'ad-' meant 'to' and 'signare' meant 'to mark or designate.'

'assignare' transformed into the Old French word 'assigner,' and eventually became the modern English word 'assignment' through Middle English.

Initially, it meant 'to designate or mark something,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'a task or duty given to someone.'