'cite' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'citare,' where 'ci-' meant 'to call' and '-tare' was a frequentative suffix.

'citare' transformed into the Old French word 'citer,' and eventually became the modern English word 'cite' through Middle English.

Initially, it meant 'to call or summon,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'to refer to a source.'