'practicalism' originates from Modern English, specifically the word 'practical' + the suffix '-ism', where 'practical' meant 'relating to action or practice' and '-ism' meant 'doctrine, system, or belief'.

'practical' derived from Middle English and Old French 'pratique', from Latin 'practicus', ultimately from Greek 'praktikos' (from 'prassein'/'prattein' meaning 'to do'). The suffix '-ism' comes from Greek '-ismos' via Latin and Old French; the compound 'practicalism' is a modern English formation combining these elements.

Initially, the roots conveyed 'fit for action' (practical) and 'a system or practice' (-ism); over time their combination evolved to mean specifically 'a doctrine or attitude that prioritizes practical results over theory'.