'equitably-held' originates from the word 'equitable,' which comes from the Latin word 'aequitas,' meaning 'fairness' or 'justice.'

'Equitable' evolved from the Old French word 'equitable,' which was derived from the Latin 'aequitas.' The term 'held' is from Old English 'healdan,' meaning 'to hold or keep.'

Initially, 'equitable' meant 'fair or impartial,' and this meaning has remained consistent in modern usage.