'photocopier' originates from the Greek word 'phōtós' meaning 'light' and the Latin word 'copia' meaning 'abundance' or 'supply'.

'photocopier' evolved from the combination of 'photo-' and 'copier', reflecting its function of copying images using light.

Initially, it referred to any device that could copy images using light, but now it specifically refers to machines used in offices for document duplication.