'alcaic' originates from Greek, specifically the word 'Alkaïkos,' referring to the poet Alcaeus, who was known for using this metrical form.

'Alkaïkos' transformed into the Latin word 'alcaicus,' and eventually became the modern English word 'alcaic.'

Initially, it referred to the specific metrical form used by Alcaeus, and this meaning has largely remained the same in modern usage.