'category' originates from Greek, specifically the word 'katēgoria,' where 'katēgor-' meant 'accuse' or 'assert.'

'katēgoria' transformed into the Latin word 'categoria,' and eventually became the modern English word 'category' through Old French.

Initially, it meant 'accusation' or 'assertion,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'classification or division.'