'elucidate' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'elucidare,' where 'e-' meant 'out' and 'lucidare' meant 'to make clear.'

'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 explain,' and this meaning has largely remained the same in modern usage.