'protest' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'protestari,' where 'pro-' meant 'forth' and 'testari' meant 'to bear witness.'

'protestari' transformed into the Old French word 'protester,' and eventually became the modern English word 'protest' through Middle English.

Initially, it meant 'to declare publicly,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'expressing objection or disapproval.'