'ignoble' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'ignobilis,' where 'ig-' meant 'not' and 'nobilis' meant 'noble.'

'ignobilis' transformed into the French word 'ignoble,' and eventually became the modern English word 'ignoble' through Middle English.

Initially, it meant 'not noble or of low birth,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'not honorable in character or purpose.'