'aeoline' originates from Greek, specifically the word 'aiolos,' where 'aiolos' meant 'quick-moving' or 'nimble.'

'aiolos' transformed into the Latin word 'aeolus,' and eventually became the modern English word 'aeoline' through adaptation in musical terminology.

Initially, it referred to the quick-moving nature of the wind, but over time it evolved into its current meaning of a musical stop mimicking the aeolian harp.