'xenophobic' originates from Greek, specifically the word 'xenophobos,' where 'xeno-' meant 'stranger, foreigner' and 'phobos' meant 'fear.'

'xenophobos' was adopted into modern English as 'xenophobia' in the late 19th century, and the adjective form 'xenophobic' developed from this noun.

Initially, it meant 'fear of strangers or foreigners,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'having or showing a dislike or prejudice against people from other countries or cultures.'