'location-independent' is a compound word formed from 'location' and 'independent'. 'Location' originates from Latin 'locatio', meaning 'a placing', and 'independent' comes from Latin 'independens', meaning 'not dependent'.

The term 'location-independent' emerged in the late 20th century with the rise of digital technology, allowing work to be done remotely.

Initially, it referred to the ability to function without a fixed location, and this meaning has remained consistent.