Mid 17th century. From ancient Greek αἰσυμνήτης ruler chosen by the people, elective ruler (from αἰσυμνᾶν (Doric αἰσιμνᾶν) to rule over, of uncertain origin (perhaps from αἶσα share, lot, destiny (from the Indo-European base of ancient Greek αἰτεῖν to ask, αἴτιος culpable, responsible, Oscan aeteis (plural) parts + the Indo-European base of ancient Greek -ία), or perhaps of Asiatic origin, subsequently associated with αἶσα by popular etymology) + -της, suffix forming agent nouns) + -ic.