'supersede' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'supersedere,' where 'super-' meant 'above' and 'sedere' meant 'to sit.'

'supersedere' transformed into the French word 'superseder,' and eventually became the modern English word 'supersede' through Middle English.

Initially, it meant 'to sit above or upon,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'to replace or take the place of.'