'distinguished' originates from the Latin word 'distinguere,' where 'dis-' meant 'apart' and 'stinguere' meant 'to prick or mark.'

'distinguere' transformed into the Old French word 'distinguer,' and eventually became the modern English word 'distinguish,' from which 'distinguished' is derived.

Initially, it meant 'to separate or mark apart,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'recognized for excellence or achievement.'