'repartee' originates from French, specifically the word 'repartie,' where 're-' meant 'again' and 'partir' meant 'to divide or leave.'

'repartie' transformed into the English word 'repartee' and retained its meaning of quick, witty conversation.

Initially, it meant 'to divide or leave again,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'quick, witty reply.'