'pom' (informal name for a British person) is of uncertain origin; the form 'pommie' / 'pommy' appears in Australian English in the late 19th to early 20th century and then shortened to 'pom'. Some suggested origins are folk acronyms (e.g. 'Prisoner Of Mother England') or links to words like 'pomegranate' as rhyming/slang, but none is securely proven.

The word appeared as 'pommie'/'pommy' in Australian usage around the early 20th century (recorded c.1910–1920). Over time the shorter form 'pom' became common. Alternative folk etymologies (acronyms, French 'pomme', etc.) were proposed later but lack solid evidence.

Originally used to label British settlers or newcomers in Australia/New Zealand, it has remained a term for a British person but acquired a range from neutral to clearly derogatory depending on context.