'supplication' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'supplicatio', where 'sub-' meant 'under' and 'plicare' meant 'to fold'.

'supplicatio' transformed into the Old French word 'supplicacion', and eventually became the modern English word 'supplication' through Middle English.

Initially, it meant 'a religious ceremony of thanksgiving or petition', but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'earnest or humble request'.