'anaphylactogenic' originates from Greek, specifically the word 'anaphylaxis' (from 'ana-' meaning 'again' and 'phylaxis' meaning 'protection') combined with the suffix '-genic' meaning 'producing' or 'causing'.

'anaphylaxis' was coined in the early 20th century to describe a severe allergic reaction, and the adjective 'anaphylactogenic' was formed to describe substances that cause such reactions.

Initially, it meant 'producing anaphylaxis', and this meaning has remained consistent in modern medical usage.