'ostracize' originates from Greek, specifically the word 'ostrakizein,' where 'ostrakon' meant 'shell or potsherd.'

'ostrakizein' transformed into the Latin word 'ostracizare,' and eventually became the modern English word 'ostracize' through Middle English.

Initially, it meant 'to banish by voting with potsherds,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'to exclude from a group or society.'