'antitraditionalist' originates from Greek and Latin elements: Greek 'antí' (anti-) meaning 'against' and Latin 'traditio' (the source of English 'tradition') meaning 'a handing over', combined with the English suffix '-ist' denoting an adherent or person associated with a position.

'antitraditionalist' was formed in English by combining the prefix 'anti-' with 'traditionalist' (itself from 'traditional' + '-ist'). It follows the pattern of compounds like 'anti‑traditional' and developments of '-ist' agent nouns in modern English usage.

Initially constructed to indicate opposition to tradition, its meaning has remained consistent: describing persons or attitudes that reject or resist traditional norms and practices.