'antipragmatist' originates from Modern English, specifically formed from the prefix 'anti-' (against) + the noun 'pragmatist', where 'pragmatist' is derived from 'pragmatism' ultimately from Greek 'pragma' meaning 'deed' or 'thing'.

'pragmatism' developed from French 'pragmatisme' (and earlier Latin/Greek roots), with Greek 'pragma' → French 'pragmatisme' → English 'pragmatism'; 'pragmatist' was formed to denote an adherent, and 'antipragmatist' was later formed in English by adding 'anti-' to indicate opposition.

Initially 'pragma' meant 'deed' or 'thing'; 'pragmatism' evolved into a philosophical movement emphasizing practical consequences; 'antipragmatist' therefore came to mean someone who opposes that practical-first emphasis.