'androsterone' originates from Greek, specifically the words 'anēr, andros' meaning 'man' and 'stereos' meaning 'solid', combined with the chemical suffix '-one' indicating a ketone.

'androsterone' was coined in the early 20th century as scientists began to isolate and identify steroid hormones, and the name reflects its chemical structure and association with male characteristics.

Initially, it referred specifically to a steroid hormone found in male urine, but now it broadly refers to the hormone involved in male traits and metabolism.