'pedestal' originates from Italian, specifically the word 'piedistallo,' where 'piede' meant 'foot' and 'stallo' meant 'stall or place.'

'piedistallo' transformed into the French word 'piédestal,' and eventually became the modern English word 'pedestal' through Middle English.

Initially, it meant 'a base or support for a statue,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'a position of admiration or reverence.'