'anti-lynching' is formed from the prefix 'anti-' (originating from Greek 'anti' meaning 'against') combined with 'lynching' (from the surname 'Lynch' used in 'Lynch's law', referring to extrajudicial punishment).

The element 'lynch' developed in U.S. English from references to 'Lynch's law' (late 18th century), became the verb 'to lynch' and the noun 'lynching' in the 19th century; the prefixed form 'anti-lynching' arose in the late 19th to early 20th century in movements and legislative language opposing the practice.

Initially related specifically to opposing 'Lynch's law' or lynching as a practice; over time it broadened to name movements, laws, policies, and general attitudes that condemn or seek to prevent lynching.