'ambergris' originates from Old French, specifically the word 'ambre gris', where 'ambre' meant 'amber' and 'gris' meant 'gray'.

'ambre gris' transformed into the English word 'ambergris' and eventually became the modern English word 'ambergris'.

Initially, it meant 'gray amber', referring to the color and appearance, but over time it became specifically associated with the substance produced by sperm whales used in perfumery.