'investigator' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'investigare,' where 'in-' meant 'into' and 'vestigare' meant 'to track or trace.'

'investigare' transformed into the French word 'investiguer,' and eventually became the modern English word 'investigate' through Middle English.

Initially, it meant 'to track or trace something,' and over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'to carry out a detailed examination or inquiry.'