'pro-feminist' originates from the prefix 'pro-' meaning 'in favor of' and 'feminist,' which refers to someone who supports feminism.

The term 'pro-feminist' emerged in the late 20th century as a way for individuals, particularly men, to express their support for feminist movements without necessarily identifying as feminists themselves.

Initially, it meant 'in favor of feminist principles,' and this meaning has largely remained the same in modern usage.