'rudiment' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'rudimentum,' where 'rudis' meant 'unwrought' or 'unformed.'

'rudimentum' transformed into the Old French word 'rudiment,' and eventually became the modern English word 'rudiment' through Middle English.

Initially, it meant 'an undeveloped or unformed part,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'basic principles or elements.'