'ingrain' originates from Middle English, specifically the word 'engraien,' where 'en-' meant 'in' and 'graien' meant 'to dye.'

'engraien' transformed into the modern English word 'ingrain' through the influence of the word 'grain,' which referred to the dyeing process.

Initially, it meant 'to dye with a fast color,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'to firmly fix or establish.'