'cyber-aware' originates from the prefix 'cyber-' which is derived from 'cybernetics', a term coined in the 1940s from the Greek 'kybernetes' meaning 'steersman', combined with 'aware' from Old English 'gewær', meaning 'watchful'.

'cyber-' was popularized in the late 20th century with the rise of the internet, and 'aware' has been used since Old English times, eventually forming the modern term 'cyber-aware'.

Initially, 'cyber-' referred to control systems and technology, but over time it evolved to encompass internet-related contexts, leading to the modern understanding of 'cyber-aware' as being knowledgeable about online safety.