'fluctuation' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'fluctuatio,' where 'fluctuare' meant 'to flow or wave.'

'fluctuatio' transformed into the French word 'fluctuation,' and eventually became the modern English word 'fluctuation' through Middle English.

Initially, it meant 'to flow or wave,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'variations or changes in level, amount, or value.'