'archregent' originates from two elements: the prefix 'arch-' (from Greek 'arkhē') meaning 'chief' or 'principal', and 'regent' (from Latin 'regens', present participle of 'regere') meaning 'one who rules'.

'archregent' was formed in Modern English by combining the Greek-derived prefix 'arch-' with the existing Middle/Modern English word 'regent' (from Latin 'regens'), creating a compound meaning 'chief regent'.

Initially a straightforward compound meaning 'chief (arch-) regent', the term has retained that specific sense and is used to denote the senior or principal regent rather than a general ruler.