'dilute' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'dilutus,' where 'di-' meant 'apart' and 'lutus' meant 'washed.'

'dilutus' transformed into the French word 'diluer,' and eventually became the modern English word 'dilute' through Middle English.

Initially, it meant 'to wash apart,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'to make a liquid thinner or weaker by adding water or another solvent.'