'subversive' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'subvertere,' where 'sub-' meant 'under' and 'vertere' meant 'to turn.'

'subvertere' transformed into the Old French word 'subversif,' and eventually became the modern English word 'subversive' through Middle English.

Initially, it meant 'to turn under or overthrow,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'intending to undermine or overthrow an established system or institution.'