militate (v.)youdaoicibaDictYouDict[militate 词源字典]
1620s, "to serve as a soldier" (now rare), from Latin militatum, past participle of militare "serve as a soldier," from miles "soldier" (see military (adj.)). Sense developed via "conflict with," to "be evidence" for or against (1640s). Related: Militated; militating.[militate etymology, militate origin, 英语词源]