'subscription' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'subscriptio', where 'sub-' meant 'under' and 'scribere' meant 'to write'.

'subscriptio' transformed into the Old French word 'subscription', and eventually became the modern English word 'subscription'.

Initially, it meant 'a written signature or agreement', but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'an arrangement to receive something regularly'.