Tech
/tɛk/noun
Informal short form of technology, especially modern electronic or digital technology.
Did you know?The word ultimately comes from Greek *téchnē*, meaning “art” or “craft,” the same root behind *technique* and *technical*—so “tech” began as human skill, not machines.
Etymological Timeline
Ancient Greek
Greek
τέχνη (téchnē)
“art, craft, skill, or practical knowledge”
Late Latin
Latin
technica
“systematic treatment of an art or craft”
17th–18th Century
English
technical
“pertaining to a craft, art, or specialized skill”
19th Century
English
technology
“the systematic study or discourse of the practical arts”
20th Century
English
tech
“short form for technology, especially modern electronic technology”
Explore more surprising origins