'invite' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'invitare,' where 'in-' meant 'toward' and 'vitare' meant 'to call or summon.'

'invitare' transformed into the Old French word 'inviter,' and eventually became the modern English word 'invite' through Middle English.

Initially, it meant 'to call or summon someone,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'to ask someone to participate or attend.'