'inequity' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'inaequitas,' where 'in-' meant 'not' and 'aequitas' meant 'equality or fairness.'

'inaequitas' transformed into the Old French word 'inequité,' and eventually became the modern English word 'inequity' through Middle English.

Initially, it meant 'lack of equality or fairness,' and this meaning has largely remained the same in modern usage.