'laconic' originates from Greek, specifically the word 'Lakōnikos,' referring to the region of Laconia, where Spartans were known for their brevity of speech.

'Lakōnikos' transformed into the Latin word 'laconicus,' and eventually became the modern English word 'laconic' through Middle English.

Initially, it referred to the Spartan way of speaking, but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'using few words.'