'equivalent' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'aequivalentem,' where 'aequi-' meant 'equal' and 'valentem' meant 'having power or strength.'

'aequivalentem' transformed into the Old French word 'equivalent,' and eventually became the modern English word 'equivalent.'

Initially, it meant 'having equal power or strength,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'equal in value, amount, function, meaning, etc.'