'contender' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'contendere,' where 'con-' meant 'together' and 'tendere' meant 'to stretch or strive.'

'contendere' transformed into the French word 'contendre,' and eventually became the modern English word 'contend' through Middle English.

Initially, it meant 'to strive together,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'to compete or vie for something.'