'ampulate' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'ampulare,' where 'ampul-' meant 'to wander' and '-are' was a verb-forming suffix.

'ampulare' transformed into the Old French word 'ampuler,' and eventually became the modern English word 'ampulate' through Middle English.

Initially, it meant 'to wander aimlessly,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'to move in a winding manner.'