'derelict' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'derelictus,' where 'de-' meant 'completely' and 'relinquere' meant 'to leave behind.'

'derelictus' transformed into the French word 'dérélit,' and eventually became the modern English word 'derelict' through Middle English.

Initially, it meant 'abandoned or forsaken,' and this meaning has largely remained the same in modern usage.