'antiquarism' originates from English, specifically formed from the noun 'antiquary' with the suffix '-ism'; 'antiquary' itself comes from Latin 'antiquarius', meaning 'of or concerning antiquities'.

'antiquarism' traces back through Middle English 'antiquary' (from Old French 'antiquaire' and Latin 'antiquarius'); the modern formation adds English suffix '-ism' to denote a practice or system.

Initially related to being 'pertaining to antiquities' (as in 'antiquarius'), it evolved into the specialized sense 'the practice, interest, or movement of collecting and studying antiquities' in modern usage.