'archonic' originates from Greek, specifically the word 'archōn' (ἄρχων), where the root 'arkh-' meant 'to rule' or 'begin'.

'archōn' entered English usage via Latin/medieval scholarly use as 'archon'; the adjective 'archonic' was formed in English by adding the productive adjectival suffix '-ic' to denote 'of or relating to an archon'.

Initially associated directly with the title or office of a 'ruler', its meaning broadened to describe characteristics of rulership, hierarchical dominance, or the theological concept of archons in Gnosticism.