'meticulously' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'meticulosus,' where 'metus' meant 'fear.' 'Altered' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'alterare,' where 'alter' meant 'other.'

'meticulosus' transformed into the French word 'méticuleux,' and eventually became the modern English word 'meticulous.' 'Alterare' transformed into the French word 'altérer,' and eventually became the modern English word 'alter.'

Initially, 'meticulous' meant 'full of fear,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'showing great attention to detail.' 'Alter' has largely retained its meaning of 'change or modify.'