* Latin "aquae ductus": This phrase literally means "water led" or "water conductor." It was used to describe the structures built by the Romans to transport water from sources to cities.
* Late Latin "aqueductus": This word evolved from the Latin phrase and became the standard term for water conduits.
* Medieval Latin "aqueductus": The word was adopted into medieval Latin, becoming the primary term for such structures.
* Middle English "aqueduct": This word was borrowed from medieval Latin and entered the English language in the 14th century.
Therefore, the word "aqueduct" has its roots in the practical need of ancient societies to transport water. The Romans, renowned for their engineering skills, built impressive aqueducts that provided clean water to their cities, and the word itself reflects the ingenuity and necessity of this technology.