'elaborate' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'elaboratus,' where 'e-' meant 'out' and 'laborare' meant 'to work.'

'elaboratus' transformed into the French word 'élaborer,' and eventually became the modern English word 'elaborate' through Middle English.

Initially, it meant 'to work out in detail,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'detailed and complex.'