'angraecoid' originates from the genus name 'Angraecum' (New Latin) combined with the Greek-derived suffix '-oid', where '-oid' meant 'resembling' or 'like'.

'angraecoid' developed in English by attaching the Greek suffix '-oid' (from Greek '-oeidēs') to the botanical name 'Angraecum', forming an adjective meaning 'like Angraecum'; it entered modern usage in botanical descriptions.

Initially it meant 'pertaining to or resembling Angraecum'; over time it has retained that technical botanical sense and is still used to describe orchids with Angraecum-like features.