'vilify' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'vilificare,' where 'vilis' meant 'cheap or base' and 'facere' meant 'to make.'

'vilificare' transformed into the Old French word 'vilifier,' and eventually became the modern English word 'vilify' through Middle English.

Initially, it meant 'to make cheap or base,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'to disparage or defame someone.'