'stylistic' originates from English 'style' + the adjectival suffix '-istic' (from Greek/Latin formation patterns); 'style' ultimately comes from Latin 'stilus', where 'stilus' meant 'a pointed instrument for writing'.

'stylistic' was formed in English from the noun 'style' (Middle English 'stile'/'style', from Old French 'estile') combined with the suffix '-istic' (via French/Neo-Latin patterns), producing the adjective meaning 'relating to style'.

Initially, the root 'style' referred to a writing instrument ('stilus'), later shifting to mean a manner or mode of expression; over time 'stylistic' developed to mean 'relating to style' or 'pertaining to stylistic features'.