'acetalization' originates from 'acetal,' which is derived from the German word 'Acetal,' where 'acet-' referred to 'vinegar' and '-al' referred to 'alcohol.'

'Acetal' was adopted into English from the German word 'Acetal,' and eventually, the process term 'acetalization' was formed in English.

Initially, it referred to the formation of acetals in chemistry, and this meaning has remained consistent in modern usage.