'tissue-free' is a modern English compound formed from the words 'tissue' and 'free'. 'tissue' originates from French, specifically the word 'tissu' (from the verb 'tisser') meaning 'woven (fabric)'; 'free' originates from Old English 'frēo', meaning 'not in bondage' or 'exempt'.

'tissue' came into English via Old French 'tissu' (past participle of 'tisser') ultimately related to Latin 'texere' 'to weave'. Over time 'tissue' broadened from 'woven cloth' to include 'thin paper for wiping' and 'biological tissue'. 'free' comes from Old English 'frēo' and entered compounds in Modern English to convey 'without' (e.g., 'sugar-free'). The compound 'tissue-free' is a straightforward modern combination meaning 'without tissue'.

Initially, 'tissue' meant 'woven fabric'; it later acquired senses such as 'paper handkerchief' and 'biological tissue'. 'free' initially meant 'not in bondage' and has extended in compounds to mean 'without' or 'not containing'. Together, 'tissue-free' now commonly means 'without tissue' in consumer and scientific contexts.