etymologizing

(noun) (historical linguistics) an explanation of the historical origins of a word or phrase. Synonyms: deriving, derivation.

(verb) give the etymology or derivation or suggest an etymology (for a word). Synonyms: etymologize, etymologise. Examples: "The linguist probably etymologized the words incorrectly." "Although he is not trained in this, his hobby is etymologizing."

(verb) construct the history of words. Synonyms: etymologize, etymologise.