'Locke-like' originates from Modern English, combining the surname 'Locke' and the suffix '-like', where the suffix '-like' ultimately derives from Old English 'līc' meaning 'like, similar'.

The adjectival suffix '-like' developed from Old English 'līc' to Middle English 'like' and then became the productive Modern English suffix '-like' used to form adjectives; the surname 'Locke' comes from Old English 'loc(a)' meaning 'enclosure' and has existed as a family name since the Middle Ages.

Initially a straightforward compound meaning 'having the qualities of Locke', its usage has remained stable and continues to denote resemblance to John Locke or his ideas.