'castrate' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'castrare', where 'castr-' meant 'to cut'.

'castrare' transformed into the Old French word 'castrer', and eventually became the modern English word 'castrate' through Middle English.

Initially, it meant 'to cut or remove the testicles', but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'to deprive of power or vitality'.