'college' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'collegium,' where 'col-' meant 'together' and 'legere' meant 'to choose or gather.'

'collegium' transformed into the Old French word 'college,' and eventually became the modern English word 'college' through Middle English.

Initially, it meant 'a group of people living together,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'an educational institution.'