'sophism' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'sophisma,' borrowed from Greek 'sophisma,' where the element 'soph-' comes from Greek 'sophos' meaning 'wise' and the suffix '-isma' indicated an action or result.

'sophism' changed from Greek 'sophisma' (a clever device or contrivance) into Latin 'sophisma' and entered English (via Medieval/Latin usage) as 'sophism' with its current form.

Initially, it meant 'a clever device or contrivance' (neutral or technical); over time it evolved into the current negative sense of 'a specious or deceptive argument' used to mislead.