Final answer:
The term 'cult' brings to mind negative connotations but has been integral to the origins of several world religions, like Christianity, which evolved from cults to denominations with significant influence.
Step-by-step explanation:
The term that often brings negative connotations but has been integral to the origins of several world religions is 'cult.' Although the term 'cult' might inspire negative impressions, many of the world's largest religions, including Christianity, began as cults. These religions went through transitions, ultimately expanding and evolving into ecclesia or denominations with significant social influence. Today's cults are often misunderstood and while they are perceived negatively, most are not associated with violence.
As a sociological term, 'cult' simply describes a religious organization or movement that is at its beginning stage, often with practices or beliefs that deviate from the mainstream. The world's major religions such as Hinduism, Buddhism, Islam, Confucianism, Christianity, Taoism, and Judaism have all gone through phases of development and change, and what was once seen as unconventional or outside the mainstream may become widely accepted over time.