'migrate' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'migrare,' where 'migrare' meant 'to move from one place to another.'

'migrate' entered English via Late Latin and French influences: Latin 'migrare' / past participle 'migratus' → Late Latin/Old French forms → borrowed into English (early 17th century) as 'migrate.'

Initially it meant 'to move from one place to another' (especially people or animals); over time the sense broadened to include 'transfer' in technical and figurative contexts (e.g., migrating data, users, or processes).