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

'alveolus' transformed into the French word 'alvéolite,' and eventually became the modern English word 'alveolite.'

Initially, it meant 'small cavity,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'fossil coral with a honeycomb structure.'