'departure-oriented' is a compound formed in modern English from 'departure' + the adjective-forming element '-oriented.' 'Departure' originates from Old French 'depart' (to part) ultimately from a Vulgar/Latin formation related to Latin 'partire'/'part-' meaning 'part, divide, leave.' The suffix '-oriented' derives from Latin 'oriens' (rising, east) via French/Latin 'orientare', later taking on the sense 'directed toward' in English.

'departure' developed in Middle English from Old French 'depart' and related medieval usages meaning 'a leaving or setting out.' The pattern '-oriented' arose later (modern/post-medieval English) by analogy with phrases like 'goal-oriented' or 'task-oriented,' producing the compound 'departure-oriented' in modern usage to mean 'directed toward departures.'

Originally, components meant 'a parting/setting out' (for 'departure') and 'to turn toward/rise' (for 'orient'). Over time, the combined modern compound has come to mean 'directed toward or prioritizing leaving/outbound activity' rather than any literal turning toward the east.