'dissenter' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'dissentire,' where 'dis-' meant 'apart' and 'sentire' meant 'to feel.'

'dissentire' transformed into the French word 'dissenter,' and eventually became the modern English word 'dissenter' through Middle English.

Initially, it meant 'to feel apart or differently,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'a person who disagrees with an established doctrine or authority.'