'antisemitic' originates from modern English, formed from the prefix 'anti-' (against) + 'Semitic' (relating to Semites), ultimately influenced by German 'antisemitisch' and the noun 'Antisemitismus'.

'antisemitic' developed in the late 19th century alongside the German 'Antisemitismus' (coined to describe hostility toward Jews); English adopted 'antisemitic' and 'antisemitism' from these formations.

Initially influenced by the broader term 'Semitic' (linguistic/ethnic grouping), in practice the term came to mean hostility specifically toward Jews and Jewish communities.