'Anthesterion' originates from Ancient Greek, specifically the word 'Ἀνθεστήριον' (or 'Ἀνθεστηρίων'), where 'ἄνθος' (anthos) meant 'flower' and the element '-τήριον' (‑tērion) indicated a place or festival.

'Anthesterion' entered modern English usage through classical scholarship and Latin/Greek references; the Ancient Greek 'Ἀνθεστήριον' was adopted into English as 'Anthesterion' in writings on Greek religion and calendars.

Initially it referred to a specific month and its associated festival—literally a 'flower-place' or 'flower-festival'—and in modern usage it denotes that ancient Greek month or the festival associated with it.