'strain-linked' originates from the combination of 'strain' and 'linked', where 'strain' refers to a genetic variant or subtype and 'linked' means connected or associated.

'strain' and 'linked' have been used separately in English for centuries, but their combination into 'strain-linked' is a more recent development, particularly in scientific contexts.

Initially, 'strain' referred to a lineage or breed, and 'linked' meant connected. Together, they now specifically refer to genetic or biological associations.