'academe' originates from Greek, specifically the word 'Akadēmos,' where 'Akadēmos' was a hero in Greek mythology.

'Akadēmos' transformed into the Latin word 'academia,' and eventually became the modern English word 'academe' through Middle English.

Initially, it referred to the grove where Plato taught, but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'the academic environment or community.'