'absolve' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'absolvere,' where 'ab-' meant 'from' and 'solvere' meant 'to loosen.'

'absolvere' transformed into the Old French word 'absolvre,' and eventually became the modern English word 'absolve' through Middle English.

Initially, it meant 'to loosen or free from,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'to free from guilt or blame.'