'cite' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'citare,' where 'citare' meant 'to summon' or 'to urge into motion.'

'cite' changed from Old French 'citer' (borrowed from Latin 'citare') and entered Middle English as forms like 'citen'/'cite,' eventually becoming the modern English 'cite.'

Initially, it meant 'to summon or call (for example, to call before a court),' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'to refer to or mention as evidence or authority.'