'sordid' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'sordidus,' where 'sordere' meant 'to be dirty.'

'sordidus' transformed into the Old French word 'sordide,' and eventually became the modern English word 'sordid' through Middle English.

Initially, it meant 'dirty or filthy,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'morally ignoble or base.'