'elapse' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'elapsus,' where 'e-' meant 'out' and 'labi' meant 'to slip.'

'elapsus' transformed into the French word 'elapser,' and eventually became the modern English word 'elapse' through Middle English.

Initially, it meant 'to slip out or away,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'to pass or slip by, especially with regard to time.'