'amphoteric' originates from Greek, specifically the word 'amphoteros,' where 'ampho-' meant 'both' and '-teros' meant 'of two kinds.'

'amphoteros' transformed into the Medieval Latin word 'amphotericus,' and eventually became the modern English word 'amphoteric.'

Initially, it meant 'of both kinds,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'having the ability to react as both an acid and a base.'