'exploit' originates from Old French, specifically the word 'exploiter,' where 'ex-' meant 'out' and 'ploiter' meant 'to fold or plait.'

'exploiter' transformed into the Middle English word 'exploiten,' and eventually became the modern English word 'exploit.'

Initially, it meant 'to accomplish or achieve,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'to use selfishly for one's own ends.'