the word is a modern formation, coined in the late 20th century. it combines the greek-derived combining form 'techno-', relating to art, craft, or skill—and by extension, applied science and technology—with '-phobe', from the greek 'phobos' meaning fear. the literal construction yields "one who fears technology." this follows a classic pattern in english for naming specific fears or aversions, such as in 'agoraphobe' or 'xenophobe'. the term emerged as a direct response to the rapid acceleration of computerization and digital innovation, creating a label for those who feel anxiety or resistance toward these changes.

Structure: techno (technology) + phobe (one who fears) 'techno' is from greek 'tekhnē', meaning art, craft, skill. in this compound, it refers to technology. 'phobe' is from greek '-phobos', meaning fearing, from 'phobos' meaning fear or panic. it is a combining form meaning one who fears or has an aversion to something.