'jeopardize' originates from Middle English, specifically the word 'jeopardie,' where 'jeu' meant 'game' and 'peril' meant 'danger.'

'jeopardie' transformed into the modern English word 'jeopardize' through the influence of the verb form 'jeopardize.'

Initially, it meant 'to expose to danger or risk,' and this meaning has largely remained the same in modern usage.