'replication' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'replicatio,' where 're-' meant 'again' and 'plicare' meant 'to fold.'

'replicatio' transformed into the Old French word 'replicacion,' and eventually became the modern English word 'replication' through Middle English.

Initially, it meant 'a reply or answer,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'copying or reproducing something.'