'encourage' originates from Old French, specifically the word 'encoragier,' where 'en-' meant 'in' and 'corage' meant 'heart or spirit.'

'encoragier' transformed into the Middle English word 'encouragen,' and eventually became the modern English word 'encourage.'

Initially, it meant 'to put heart into someone,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'to give support or confidence.'