'conservative' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'conservare,' where 'con-' meant 'together' and 'servare' meant 'to keep or guard.'

'conservare' transformed into the French word 'conservatif,' and eventually became the modern English word 'conservative' through Middle English.

Initially, it meant 'to keep or guard together,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'favoring traditional views and values.'