'trickle-feed' originates from modern English, specifically the combination of the verb 'trickle' (meaning to flow in small drops) and the verb 'feed' (meaning to supply or give).

'trickle' developed from Middle English 'trikelen' (an imitative formation reflecting a small flowing motion), while 'feed' comes from Old English 'fēdan' meaning 'to nourish'; the compound formed in modern English usage by combining these two verbs to express supplying slowly.

Initially, 'trickle' meant 'to flow in drops' and 'feed' meant 'to supply'; over time their combination came to mean 'to supply gradually in small amounts.'