'stringency' originates from Latin, specifically the verb 'stringere', where the root 'string-' meant 'to draw tight' or 'to bind tight'. The English noun was formed from the adjective 'stringent' plus the suffix '-cy'.

'stringency' developed after the adjective 'stringent' entered English (from Latin 'stringere' via Medieval/Modern French forms). The noun 'stringency' was created in English by adding the nominalizing suffix '-cy' to 'stringent'.

Initially the root related to the physical action 'to draw tight'; over time the sense became metaphorical, denoting 'strictness' or 'tightness' (especially of rules, controls, or finances).