'discourse' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'discursus,' where 'dis-' meant 'apart' and 'currere' meant 'to run.'

'discursus' transformed into the Old French word 'discours,' and eventually became the modern English word 'discourse' through Middle English.

Initially, it meant 'a running to and fro,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'communication or debate.'