'subordinate' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'subordinatus,' where 'sub-' meant 'under' and 'ordinare' meant 'to arrange.'

'subordinatus' transformed into the Old French word 'subordonner,' and eventually became the modern English word 'subordinate' through Middle English.

Initially, it meant 'to arrange under,' but over time it evolved into its current meanings of 'lower in rank' and 'to treat as less important.'