'congratulation' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'congratulari,' where 'con-' meant 'together' and 'gratulari' meant 'to give thanks or show joy.'

'congratulari' transformed into the French word 'congratuler,' and eventually became the modern English word 'congratulate' through Middle English.

Initially, it meant 'to express joy together,' and this meaning has largely remained the same in modern usage.