The term 'inspiration' originates from the Latin word 'inspirare,' which means "to breathe into." This term was adopted into English in the 14th century. The concept of inspiration, in the sense of being filled with a creative or elevating idea, is derived from the idea of being infused with a divine or supernatural breath, akin to the breath of God or the Holy Spirit. This concept is rooted in religious and philosophical traditions, where inspiration was seen as a divine influence or a form of revelation.

The use of 'inspiration' in the creative sense can be traced back to the Renaissance period, when artists and thinkers began to use the term to describe the process of receiving ideas or insights. This usage was influenced by the humanist movement, which emphasized the importance of reason and creativity. The term 'inspiration' thus became associated with the act of being creatively stimulated or motivated, often by external influences or internal experiences.

Data from historical dictionaries and etymological studies support this origin. For instance, the Oxford English Dictionary (OED) defines 'inspiration' as "the action or fact of inhaling; the act of breathing in; the inhaled air." It also notes that the term has been used since the 14th century in the sense of "the act of breathing in, or the state of being breathed upon, by a divine or supernatural power; hence, the act of being filled with a divine or supernatural influence or inspiration." This definition aligns with the religious and philosophical origins of the term.

Furthermore, the concept of inspiration as a divine influence is evident in religious texts and historical documents. For example, in the Bible, the word 'inspiration' is used to describe the process by which God communicates with humans, as seen in the phrase "God inspired the prophet." This usage reflects the belief that inspiration is a divine gift, a form of revelation or enlightenment.

In conclusion, the term 'inspiration' originates from the Latin word 'inspirare,' meaning "to breathe into," and has its roots in religious and philosophical traditions. The concept of being filled with a divine or supernatural breath has evolved to encompass the idea of receiving creative or elevating ideas, a process that has been influential in both artistic and intellectual endeavors. Historical evidence and etymological studies provide a clear understanding of the term's origin and its development over time.