'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 unfold or develop,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'to take advantage of.'