'promise' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'promittere,' where 'pro-' meant 'forward' and 'mittere' meant 'to send.'

'promittere' transformed into the Old French word 'promettre,' and eventually became the modern English word 'promise' through Middle English.

Initially, it meant 'to send forth a declaration,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'a declaration or assurance.'