'pro-feminism' is a compound formed from the Latin prefix 'pro' and the noun 'feminism'. 'pro' originates from Latin 'pro' where 'pro' meant 'for'. 'feminism' originates from French 'féminisme', ultimately from Latin 'femina' meaning 'woman'.

'feminism' entered English from French 'féminisme' in the late 19th century, derived from French 'femme' (woman) and Latin 'femina'. The compound 'pro-feminism' was formed in English in the 20th century by combining the prefix 'pro-' with 'feminism' to denote being 'for' feminism.

Initially, 'feminism' referred specifically to organized advocacy for women's rights; over time it broadened to include wider ideas about gender equality. 'Pro-feminism' has consistently meant 'in favor of feminism' but its usage has expanded to describe both personal attitudes and political stances in support of gender equality.