'memory-efficient' originates from the combination of 'memory' and 'efficient', where 'memory' refers to the storage capacity of a computer and 'efficient' means performing in the best possible manner with the least waste of time and effort.

'Memory-efficient' is a modern term that combines 'memory' from Old French 'memorie' and 'efficient' from Latin 'efficientem', meaning 'producing' or 'effective'.

Initially, 'efficient' meant 'producing an effect', but over time it evolved to mean 'performing effectively with minimal waste'.