'subpar' originates from the prefix 'sub-' meaning 'below' and 'par,' a term used in golf to denote the standard number of strokes set for a hole or course.

'subpar' evolved from the combination of 'sub-' and 'par' in the early 20th century, initially used in the context of golf and later adopted in general language to describe anything below standard.

Initially, it meant 'below the standard number of strokes in golf,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'below an expected standard or level.'