'solute' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'solutus,' where 'solvere' meant 'to loosen or dissolve.'

'solutus' transformed into the French word 'solut,' and eventually became the modern English word 'solute' through Middle English.

Initially, it meant 'to loosen or dissolve,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'a substance dissolved in another.'