'anti-syndicalist' originates from modern English, formed by combining the prefix 'anti-' (from Greek 'anti-' via Latin/French, meaning 'against') and 'syndicalist' (from French 'syndicaliste', from 'syndicalisme').

'syndicalist' derives from French 'syndicaliste' (from 'syndicat' meaning 'trade union'), itself from Medieval Latin/Old French roots related to Latin/Greek 'syndicus'/'syndikos' (a representative or advocate). The compound 'anti-syndicalist' emerged in English in the late 19th to early 20th century as debates over syndicalism and labor tactics intensified.

Initially it specifically designated opponents of the early syndicalist movement (especially in the early 20th century); over time it has come to refer more broadly to anyone opposed to syndicalism or to union-led direct-action tactics.