'machismo' originates from Spanish, specifically the word 'machismo', where 'macho' meant 'male, manly' and the suffix '-ismo' indicated a practice, ideology, or characteristic.

'machismo' was borrowed into English from Spanish in the early 20th century. The Spanish 'macho' likely derives from Latin roots such as 'masculus' (a diminutive of 'mas' meaning 'male'), and the formation followed Romance-language patterns before entering English.

Initially, it meant 'maleness' or 'manliness' in Spanish, but over time in English it evolved to mean an 'exaggerated or aggressive sense of masculinity' and often carries a negative connotation of male chauvinism.