'ambrettolide' originates from the word 'ambrette,' which refers to a type of plant seed used in perfumery, combined with the chemical suffix '-olide' indicating a lactone.

'Ambrette' comes from the French word 'ambrette,' which itself is derived from the Latin 'ambra,' meaning 'amber.'

Initially, it referred to a natural musk scent derived from plant seeds, but now it is synthesized for use in perfumes.