'analogion' originates from Greek, specifically the word 'ἀναλόγιον' (analogion), where 'ana-' meant 'up' or 'upon' and 'logion' meant 'a little word' or 'saying', but in this context refers to a place for reading.

'ἀναλόγιον' (analogion) was adopted directly into ecclesiastical Latin and then into English, retaining its original form and meaning.

Initially, it meant 'a reading desk or stand for books or icons in church', and this meaning has remained unchanged in modern usage.