'imbue' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'imbuere,' where 'in-' meant 'in' and 'buere' meant 'to soak.'

'imbuere' transformed into the Old French word 'embuver,' and eventually became the modern English word 'imbue' through Middle English.

Initially, it meant 'to soak or saturate,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'to inspire or permeate with a feeling or quality.'