'deviate' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'deviatus,' where 'de-' meant 'away from' and 'via' meant 'way.'

'deviatus' transformed into the French word 'dévier,' and eventually became the modern English word 'deviate' through Middle English.

Initially, it meant 'to turn aside from a path,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'to depart from a standard or norm.'