'exasperate' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'exasperare,' where 'ex-' meant 'thoroughly' and 'asperare' meant 'make rough.'

'exasperare' transformed into the Old French word 'exasperer,' and eventually became the modern English word 'exasperate' through Middle English.

Initially, it meant 'to make rough or irritate,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'to irritate intensely.'