'Ardeae' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'ardea', where 'ardea' meant 'heron'.

'Ardeae' changed from the Latin word 'ardea' (singular) into the Latin plural form 'Ardeae', and this plural has been carried into modern scientific usage as a taxonomic designation.

Initially, it meant 'heron' (the bird, via the Latin singular 'ardea'), but over time it has been used as a plural taxonomic name referring to groups of herons.