'desahogo' originates from Spanish, specifically the verb 'desahogar,' where the prefix 'des-' meant 'undoing' or 'removal' and 'ahogo' came from 'ahogar' meaning 'to choke' or 'to suffocate'.

'desahogar' developed in Old Spanish from the combination of 'des-' + 'ahogar' (Old Spanish forms included 'desafogar'/'desafogo'), and over time the noun form 'desahogo' came to be used for figurative relief as well as literal release of pressure.

Initially it had a more literal sense related to freeing from choking or physical obstruction; over time it broadened to mean emotional relief, venting, or practical breathing room.