'demotion' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'demotio,' where 'de-' meant 'down' and 'motio' meant 'movement.'

'demotio' transformed into the French word 'démotion,' and eventually became the modern English word 'demotion' through Middle English.

Initially, it meant 'a movement downwards,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'reducing rank or position.'