'primitivism' originates from the Latin word 'primitivus,' where 'primus' meant 'first' or 'original.'

'primitivus' transformed into the French word 'primitif,' and eventually became the modern English word 'primitive,' from which 'primitivism' is derived.

Initially, it meant 'first or original,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of valuing simplicity and unsophistication.