'ecclesiasticism' originates from Greek, specifically the word 'ekklesiastikos,' where 'ekklesia' meant 'assembly' or 'church.'

'ekklesiastikos' transformed into the Medieval Latin word 'ecclesiasticus,' and eventually became the modern English word 'ecclesiasticism.'

Initially, it meant 'pertaining to the church,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'a system or practice of church government and organization.'