'disfigure' originates from Old French, specifically the word 'desfigurer,' where 'des-' meant 'apart' and 'figurer' meant 'to form or shape.'

'desfigurer' transformed into the Middle English word 'disfiguren,' and eventually became the modern English word 'disfigure.'

Initially, it meant 'to change the shape or form,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'to spoil the appearance.'