'CPU-efficient' is a compound word formed from 'CPU' and 'efficient'. 'CPU' stands for 'Central Processing Unit', originating from the term 'central' meaning 'main' and 'processing unit' referring to the part of a computer that performs calculations. 'Efficient' comes from Latin 'efficientem', meaning 'producing, effective'.

The term 'CPU-efficient' emerged in the late 20th century as computing technology advanced and the need for resource optimization became crucial.

Initially, 'efficient' meant 'producing an effect', but in the context of computing, it evolved to mean 'using minimal resources for maximum output'.