The term 'modem-adjusted' is a compound word formed from 'modem' and 'adjusted'. 'Modem' originates from the words 'modulator' and 'demodulator', referring to a device that modulates and demodulates signals for communication.

The concept of 'modem-adjusted' emerged with the advent of internet technology, where settings needed to be optimized for modem use.

Initially, it referred to settings adjusted for early modems, but now it can apply to any device or setting optimized for modern modems.