'aethalia' originates from Greek, specifically the word 'aithalos,' where 'aith-' meant 'burnt' or 'sooty.'

'aithalos' transformed into the Latin word 'aethalia,' and eventually became the modern English word 'aethalia.'

Initially, it referred to 'sooty' or 'burnt' appearances, but over time it evolved into its current meaning related to slime molds.