'disrespect' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'disrespectus,' where 'dis-' meant 'apart' and 'respectus' meant 'regard or consideration.'

'disrespectus' transformed into the French word 'desrespect,' and eventually became the modern English word 'disrespect' through Middle English.

Initially, it meant 'to regard with less respect,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'to show a lack of respect.'