The compound noun 'tech-support' is a modern formation from the late 20th century, directly tied to the proliferation of personal computing. Its first element, 'tech', is a clipped form of 'technology', which itself originates from the Greek 'tekhnē', meaning art, craft, or systematic method. The second element, 'support', comes from the Latin 'supportare', meaning to carry or bear up. Literally, the term suggests "the bearing up or assistance related to technology." This compound elegantly encapsulates the core function of the service: providing the necessary skill-based aid to uphold the operation of technological systems for end-users.

Structure: tech (technology) + support (assistance) - tech: Shortened form of 'technology', from Greek 'tekhnē' (art, craft, skill). Acts as a combining form specifying the field. - support: From Latin 'supportare' (to carry, convey, endure). Acts as the head noun indicating the service provided.