'rote-focused' originates from the combination of 'rote,' which refers to mechanical or habitual repetition, and 'focused,' meaning concentrated or directed attention.

'rote' comes from Middle English 'rote,' which referred to a mechanical routine, and 'focused' is derived from the Latin 'focus,' meaning hearth or fireplace, symbolizing a central point of attention.

Initially, 'rote' meant a mechanical routine, and 'focused' meant a central point of attention. Together, they evolved to describe an emphasis on memorization.