The word is a modern English compound, formed by combining two nouns to create a specific technical adjective. 'System' originates from the Greek syn- (together) and histanai (to set, to stand), conveying the idea of a coordinated whole. 'Level' derives from the Latin libra, meaning a balance or scale, evolving to denote a plane of uniform height. In computing and engineering, 'system-level' logically extends these literal meanings to describe considerations, operations, or faults that pertain to the entire integrated 'whole' (system) at its broadest operational 'layer' (level), rather than to its constituent parts.

Structure: system (whole) + level (layer) - system: From Greek sustēma (whole compounded of several parts), via Late Latin systema. Functions as the core noun element. - level: From Latin libella (a small balance, a level), via Old French livel. Functions as a noun, here forming a compound adjective meaning "pertaining to a layer or stratum".