'scholarship' originates from the word 'scholar,' which comes from the Old English 'scolere,' meaning 'student,' and the suffix '-ship,' indicating a state or condition.

'scolere' transformed into the Middle English word 'scoler,' and eventually became the modern English word 'scholarship.'

Initially, it meant 'the state of being a scholar,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'a grant for education.'