'president-elect' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'electus,' where 'electus' meant 'chosen' or 'selected.' The term combines 'president' with the suffix '-elect' to indicate someone chosen for the office but not yet serving.

'president-elect' was formed in English by combining 'president' and the suffix '-elect,' which was borrowed from Latin 'electus.' The term has been used in English since the 18th century to refer to someone elected to the presidency but not yet in office.

Initially, '-elect' meant 'chosen' or 'selected,' and when combined with 'president,' it specifically referred to someone chosen as president but not yet inaugurated. This meaning has remained consistent.