'alectorioid' originates from the genus name 'Alectoria', which is derived from the Greek word 'alektor', meaning 'rooster', due to the appearance of the lichen resembling a rooster's comb.

'Alectoria' was used in scientific classification and eventually led to the formation of the adjective 'alectorioid' to describe similar characteristics.

Initially, it referred specifically to the genus 'Alectoria', but over time it evolved to describe anything resembling or related to this genus.