'acroterion' originates from Greek, specifically the word 'akrotērion,' where 'akro-' meant 'topmost' and '-tērion' was a suffix for place or object.

'akrotērion' transformed into the Latin word 'acroterium,' and eventually became the modern English word 'acroterion' through Middle English.

Initially, it meant 'topmost part or extremity,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'decorative pedestal.'