'suborn' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'subornare,' where 'sub-' meant 'under' and 'ornare' meant 'equip or furnish.'

'subornare' transformed into the Old French word 'suborner,' and eventually became the modern English word 'suborn' through Middle English.

Initially, it meant 'to equip or furnish secretly,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'to bribe or induce someone unlawfully.'