'annalize' originates from English, specifically formed from the noun 'annal' plus the verb-forming suffix '-ize', where 'annal' ultimately derives from Latin 'annalis' and 'annus' meant 'year'.

'annalize' changed from Latin 'annalis' via Medieval/Old French forms (e.g. 'annales') into Middle English 'annal' (meaning a yearly record) and eventually became the modern English verb 'annalize' by the addition of the productive suffix '-ize'.

Initially it meant 'to record by year' (pertaining to yearly records), and over time it evolved into the current meaning 'to record in annals or chronicles'.