'condemner' ultimately originates from Latin, specifically the verb 'condemnare' (from 'con-' + 'damnare'), where 'con-' meant 'together' or an intensifier and 'damnare' meant 'to inflict loss, to condemn'.

'condemner' developed from Old French 'condamner' and Middle English forms such as 'condemnen' (based on Latin 'condemnare'), with the agent suffix -er later forming the English noun 'condemner'.

Initially associated with pronouncing formal condemnation or punishment, its use broadened to include anyone who expresses strong moral or public disapproval.