'republic' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'respublica,' where 'res' meant 'thing' and 'publica' meant 'public.'

'respublica' transformed into the Old French word 'republique,' and eventually became the modern English word 'republic' through Middle English.

Initially, it meant 'public affair or matter,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'a state in which supreme power is held by the people and their elected representatives.'