'detriment' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'detrimentum,' where 'de-' meant 'away' and 'terere' meant 'to rub.'

'detrimentum' transformed into the Old French word 'detriment,' and eventually became the modern English word 'detriment' through Middle English.

Initially, it meant 'wearing away or rubbing off,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'harm or damage.'