'elocution' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'elocutio', where 'e-' meant 'out' and 'loqui' meant 'to speak'.

'elocutio' transformed into the French word 'élocution', and eventually became the modern English word 'elocution' through Middle English.

Initially, it meant 'the manner of speaking', but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'the skill of clear and expressive speech'.