'inaugurate' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'inaugurare,' where 'in-' meant 'into' and 'augurare' meant 'to consecrate or install.'

'inaugurare' transformed into the French word 'inaugurer,' and eventually became the modern English word 'inaugurate' through Middle English.

Initially, it meant 'to consecrate or install,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'to formally begin or introduce.'