'contribute' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'contribuere,' where 'con-' meant 'together' and 'tribuere' meant 'to give.'

'contribuere' transformed into the French word 'contribuer,' and eventually became the modern English word 'contribute' through Middle English.

Initially, it meant 'to give together,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'to give or supply in common with others.'