'L-shaped' originates from Modern English as a compound of the letter name 'L' and the adjective-forming element 'shaped' (from the noun 'shape'). The letter name 'L' ultimately comes from Phoenician 'lamed' via Greek 'lambda' and Latin 'L'.

'Shape' comes from Old English 'sceap' meaning 'form' (via Proto-Germanic roots), which developed into Middle English 'shape' and then modern English 'shape'. The compound 'L-shaped' was formed in modern English by combining the letter name 'L' with 'shaped'.

Initially it literally meant 'in the form of the letter L'; this basic meaning has remained stable, though it is also used metaphorically to describe layouts, plans, or relationships that resemble an 'L'.