'commendation' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'commendatio,' where 'commendare' meant 'to entrust or commit.'

'commendatio' transformed into the Old French word 'commendacion,' and eventually became the modern English word 'commendation' through Middle English.

Initially, it meant 'to entrust or commit,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'praise or approval.'