'ostensible' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'ostensibilis,' where 'ostendere' meant 'to show.'

'ostensibilis' transformed into the French word 'ostensible,' and eventually became the modern English word 'ostensible' through Middle English.

Initially, it meant 'capable of being shown,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'appearing to be true or real.'