'kingmaker' originates from the English words 'king' and 'maker', where 'king' refers to a monarch and 'maker' refers to someone who creates or influences.

'kingmaker' was first used in the context of the Wars of the Roses in England, referring to Richard Neville, the Earl of Warwick, who played a crucial role in the succession of the English throne.

Initially, it referred specifically to those influencing the succession of kings, but now it broadly applies to anyone with significant influence in selecting leaders.