'adenoid' originates from Greek, specifically the word 'adēn,' where 'adēn' meant 'gland.'

'adēn' transformed into the French word 'adénoïde,' and eventually became the modern English word 'adenoid' through medical terminology.

Initially, it meant 'gland-like,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'a specific lymphatic tissue in the nasopharynx.'