'preserve' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'praeservare,' where 'prae-' meant 'before' and 'servare' meant 'to keep.'

'praeservare' transformed into the Old French word 'preserver,' and eventually became the modern English word 'preserve' through Middle English.

Initially, it meant 'to keep safe or protect,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'maintaining something in its original state.'