'cathartic' originates from Greek, specifically the word 'kathartikos,' where 'katharos' meant 'pure' or 'clean.'

'kathartikos' transformed into the Latin word 'catharticus,' and eventually became the modern English word 'cathartic.'

Initially, it meant 'purging or cleansing,' and over time it evolved into its current meanings of 'psychological relief' and 'laxative.'