'collector' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'collectus,' the past participle of 'colligere,' where 'col-' meant 'together' and 'legere' meant 'to gather.'

'collectus' transformed into the Old French word 'collecteur,' and eventually became the modern English word 'collector' through Middle English.

Initially, it meant 'one who gathers things together,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'a person who collects things as a hobby or for a specific purpose.'