'ex-' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'ex,' where 'ex-' meant 'out of' or 'from.'

'ex-' changed from the Latin word 'ex' and eventually became the modern English prefix 'ex-' to denote former status.

Initially, it meant 'out of' or 'from,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'former' or 'previous.'