'elucidate' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'elucidare,' where 'e-' meant 'out' and 'lucidus' meant 'clear or bright.'

'elucidare' transformed into the French word 'élucider,' and eventually became the modern English word 'elucidate' through Middle English.

Initially, it meant 'to make clear or bright,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'to explain or clarify.'