'amyris' originates from Greek, specifically the word 'amyron,' where 'a-' meant 'not' and 'myron' meant 'fragrant oil.'

'amyron' transformed into the Latin word 'amyris,' and eventually became the modern English word 'amyris.'

Initially, it meant 'not fragrant,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of a genus of plants.