'recto' originates from Italian, specifically the word 'recto', where it meant 'right (side)' and was used in the printing and manuscript context.

'recto' comes into English via Italian 'recto', which in turn traces back to Latin 'rectus' (meaning 'right' or 'straight'), ultimately related to the Latin verb 'regere' ('to rule, to direct').

Initially it meant 'right' or 'right side' in a general sense; over time it narrowed to refer specifically to the right-hand page or front side of a leaf in books and manuscripts.