origin

Universal Words noun [C,U] (also origins [pl.]) 1 the point from which sth starts; the cause of sth: the origins of life on earth * Most coughs are viral in origin (= caused by a virus). * The origin of the word remains obscure. * This particular custom has its origins in Wales. 2 a person's social and family background: She has risen from humble origins to immense wealth. * children of various ethnic origins * people of German origin * a person's country of origin (= where they were born)