'attribute' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'attribuere,' where 'ad-' meant 'to' and 'tribuere' meant 'assign.'

'attribuere' transformed into the French word 'attribuer,' and eventually became the modern English word 'attribute' through Middle English.

Initially, it meant 'to assign or bestow,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'a quality or feature regarded as a characteristic or inherent part of someone or something.'