'attenuate' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'attenuatus,' where 'ad-' meant 'to' and 'tenuis' meant 'thin.'

'attenuatus' transformed into the French word 'atténuer,' and eventually became the modern English word 'attenuate' through Middle English.

Initially, it meant 'to make thin or slender,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'to reduce in force or effect.'