'adonis' originates from Greek mythology, specifically the name 'Adōnis', where 'Adōnis' was a beautiful youth loved by Aphrodite.

'Adōnis' was adopted into Latin as 'Adonis' and eventually became the modern English word 'adonis'.

Initially, it referred to the mythological figure, but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'a very handsome young man'.