'possibilism' originates from the Latin word 'possibilis,' meaning 'possible,' combined with the suffix '-ism' to denote a theory or belief.

'Possibilis' transformed into the French word 'possibilisme,' and eventually became the modern English word 'possibilism.'

Initially, it meant 'the state of being possible,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'a theory emphasizing human influence on the environment.'