'European-style' originates from the compound of 'European' and 'style'. 'European' ultimately comes from Greek and Latin, specifically the word 'Europa', where 'Europa' referred to the mythological figure and the region of Europe. 'Style' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'stilus', where 'stilus' meant 'writing instrument'.

'European' changed from the Greek word 'Europa' to the Latin 'Europa', then through Old French and Middle English forms before becoming modern English 'European'. 'Style' changed from Latin 'stilus' to Old French 'estile'/'style' and then to Middle English 'style', eventually combining in modern English into compounds such as 'European-style'.

Initially, 'stilus' referred to a 'writing instrument', and 'style' came to mean 'manner of writing' before broadening to 'manner' or 'fashion' generally. 'European-style' initially meant 'in the manner of Europe' and has retained that general meaning while applying to many contexts (architecture, cuisine, fashion, etc.).