'antimechanization' originates from the combining element 'anti-' from Greek 'anti' meaning 'against' and the noun 'mechanization', itself formed from 'mechanize' and the suffix '-ation'. 'mechanize' traces back through French 'mécaniser' and Medieval Latin influences to Greek 'mēkhanē' meaning 'device' or 'machine'.

'mechanization' developed from adjective/noun forms like 'mechanical' and verbs 'mechanize' in modern European languages; the compound 'anti-' + 'mechanization' arose in modern English discourse (notably 19th–20th century) to express opposition to the spread of machines and automated processes.

Initially, 'mechanization' referred simply to the process of making something operate by machines; 'antimechanization' has consistently meant opposition to that process and retains that core sense, used especially in social, economic, or political contexts.