'contractor' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'contractus,' where 'con-' meant 'together' and 'tractus' meant 'drawn or pulled.'

'contractus' transformed into the Old French word 'contracteur,' and eventually became the modern English word 'contractor' through Middle English.

Initially, it meant 'one who draws together,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'one who undertakes a contract to perform a service.'