'plagiarist' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'plagiarius,' where 'plagiarius' meant 'kidnapper' or 'literary thief.'

'plagiarius' transformed into the French word 'plagiaire,' and eventually became the modern English word 'plagiarist' through Middle English.

Initially, it meant 'kidnapper,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'literary thief.'