'dispute' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'disputare,' where 'dis-' meant 'apart' and 'putare' meant 'to reckon or think.'

'disputare' transformed into the Old French word 'disputer,' and eventually became the modern English word 'dispute' through Middle English.

Initially, it meant 'to reckon or think apart,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'to argue or debate.'