'ancylopoda' originates from Greek, specifically the words 'ankylos' meaning 'curved' or 'bent' and 'pous, podos' meaning 'foot', referring to the animal's distinctive curved claws.

'ancylopoda' was coined in modern scientific Latin based on Greek roots to describe this unique group of prehistoric mammals.

Initially, it referred specifically to animals with curved feet, but it became the formal name for this extinct suborder of mammals.