'emancipate' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'emancipare,' where 'e-' meant 'out' and 'mancipare' meant 'to deliver or transfer ownership.'

'emancipare' transformed into the French word 'émanciper,' and eventually became the modern English word 'emancipate' through Middle English.

Initially, it meant 'to deliver or transfer ownership,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'to set free.'