'alumetize' originates from the word 'alum,' which comes from the Latin word 'alumen,' meaning 'bitter salt.'

'alumen' transformed into the Old French word 'alun,' and eventually became the modern English word 'alum.' The verb form 'alumetize' was derived to describe the process of treating with alum.

Initially, it meant 'to treat with alum,' and this meaning has largely remained the same in modern usage.