'prestigious' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'praestigiosus,' where 'prae-' meant 'before' and 'stigiosus' meant 'full of tricks.'

'praestigiosus' transformed into the French word 'prestigieux,' and eventually became the modern English word 'prestigious' through Middle English.

Initially, it meant 'full of tricks or illusions,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'having a high status or reputation.'