'annalist-minded' originates from a compound of English components: 'annalist' (from Latin via Medieval Latin/French) and the adjectival suffix '-minded' (from English 'mind'). 'annalist' ultimately comes from Latin 'annales', where 'annus' meant 'year'; '-minded' derives from Old English roots related to 'gemynd' meaning 'memory' or 'mind'.

'annalist' developed from Latin 'annales' ('yearly records') into Medieval Latin/Old French forms such as 'annalista' / 'annaliste' and then into Middle English as 'annalist', meaning 'a compiler of annals'. The element '-minded' arose in English by attaching 'mind(ed)' to nouns to form adjectives indicating inclination (e.g., 'open-minded'); combined as 'annalist-minded' to mean 'having the disposition of an annalist'.

Initially, 'annalist' specifically denoted 'one who compiles yearly records'; over time, especially when combined with '-minded', the meaning broadened to 'inclined to record or emphasize chronological, factual details' rather than only referring to a professional compiler.