'inspire' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'inspirare' (in- + spirare), where 'in-' meant 'into' and 'spirare' meant 'to breathe.'

'inspire' changed from Medieval Latin 'inspirare' and Old French influences and eventually became the modern English word 'inspire' through Middle English.

Initially, it meant 'to breathe into' (literally), but over time it evolved into the current sense of 'to fill someone with a feeling or idea; to motivate or stimulate creativity.'