'pro-tobacco' is a compound formed from the prefix 'pro-' (from Latin 'pro', meaning 'for' or 'in favor of') and the noun 'tobacco' (from Spanish 'tabaco').

'tobacco' entered English from Spanish 'tabaco', ultimately from Taíno (Arawakan) 'tabaco'; the prefix 'pro-' has Latin roots and has been combined with modern nouns to form compounds like 'pro-choice' and 'pro-vaccine', leading to uses such as 'pro-tobacco'.

Initially a transparent compound meaning 'in favor of tobacco' (literally 'pro' + 'tobacco'); its meaning has remained consistent as a descriptor for support of tobacco or tobacco interests.