'alveolar' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'alveolus,' where 'alveus' meant 'cavity' or 'hollow.'

'alveolus' transformed into the French word 'alvéole,' and eventually became the modern English word 'alveolar' through Middle English.

Initially, it meant 'small cavity,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'pertaining to the alveoli, especially in speech.'