'anauxite' originates from German, specifically the word 'Anauxit,' which was named after the Greek word 'anauxēs,' meaning 'not increasing' or 'not growing,' possibly referring to its crystal habit.

'Anauxit' was adopted into English as 'anauxite' in the late 19th century as a mineralogical term.

Initially, it referred to a distinct mineral species, but over time it became recognized as a variety of kaolinite rather than a separate mineral.