'internet-centric' originates from the combination of 'internet' and the suffix '-centric', where 'internet' refers to the global network of computers and '-centric' means 'centered around'.

The term 'internet-centric' emerged in the late 20th century as the internet became a central part of business and daily life.

Initially, it meant 'focused on the internet', and this meaning has remained consistent as the internet's role in society has grown.