'eclectic' originates from Greek, specifically the word 'eklektikos,' where 'ek-' meant 'out' and 'legein' meant 'to choose.'

'eklektikos' transformed into the Latin word 'eclecticus,' and eventually became the modern English word 'eclectic' through Middle English.

Initially, it meant 'selective in choosing,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'deriving ideas from a broad range of sources.'