'commiseration' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'commiseratio,' where 'com-' meant 'together' and 'miserari' meant 'to pity.'

'commiseratio' transformed into the French word 'commisération,' and eventually became the modern English word 'commiseration' through Middle English.

Initially, it meant 'to feel pity together,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'sympathy and sorrow for the misfortunes of others.'