'theory-driven' originates from the combination of 'theory' and 'driven,' where 'theory' comes from the Greek word 'theoria,' meaning 'contemplation or speculation,' and 'driven' is derived from the Old English 'drifan,' meaning 'to drive or propel.'

'theoria' transformed into the Latin 'theoria,' and eventually became the modern English word 'theory.' 'Drifan' evolved into the Middle English 'driven,' leading to the modern English 'driven.'

Initially, 'theory' meant 'contemplation or speculation,' but over time it evolved to mean a systematic set of ideas. 'Driven' has largely retained its original meaning of being propelled or motivated.