'base-forming' originates from the combination of 'base,' meaning 'the fundamental part,' and 'forming,' meaning 'to create or shape.'

'Base' and 'forming' have been used in English since the Middle Ages, with 'base' deriving from Latin 'basis' and 'forming' from Old English 'formian.'

Initially, 'base-forming' referred to the creation of a foundation, but in modern usage, it often pertains to chemical processes.