'preserve' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'praeservare,' where 'prae-' meant 'before' and 'servare' meant 'to keep or guard.'

'praeservare' transformed into the Old French word 'preserver,' and eventually became the modern English word 'preserve' through Middle English.

Initially, it meant 'to keep or guard before,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'to maintain or protect.'