'arithmetize' originates from English formation using 'arithmetic' + the verbal suffix '-ize' (from Greek/Latin formation), where 'arithmetic' itself ultimately traces to Greek 'arithmós' meaning 'number'.

'arithmetize' was formed in modern English by adding the productive suffix '-ize' to 'arithmetic' (from Middle French/Latin forms of Greek 'arithmétikos' / 'arithmós'), creating a verb meaning 'to make arithmetic' or 'to treat by arithmetic'.

Initially it meant 'to perform arithmetic on or make arithmetic', and over time its usage broadened to 'to express in numbers; to quantify' as well as 'to compute'.