'aphorize' originates from English formation using the noun 'aphorism' plus the verb-forming suffix '-ize'; 'aphorism' comes from Greek 'aphorismos' (ἀφορισμός), from 'aphorizō' (ἀφορίζω).

'aphorize' developed in English by adding '-ize' to the noun 'aphorism' (itself from Greek 'aphorismos' via Latin/French influence), producing the verb meaning 'to make into or express as an aphorism.'

Initially related to the Greek root meaning 'to separate, to delimit' (used in the sense of a concise definition), it has come to mean specifically 'to express in a concise, pointed maxim (an aphorism)'.