'frigate' originates from the French word 'frégate', which in turn comes from the Italian 'fregata', meaning a small, swift ship.

'fregata' transformed into the French word 'frégate', and eventually became the modern English word 'frigate'.

Initially, it referred to a small, swift ship, but over time it evolved into its current meaning of a warship used for escorting and protecting other vessels.