'aniseed' originates from Middle English, specifically the word 'anis,' which came from Old French 'anis,' derived from Latin 'anisum,' and ultimately from Greek 'anison.'

'anisum' transformed into the Old French word 'anis,' and eventually became the modern English word 'aniseed' through Middle English.

Initially, it meant 'the seed of the anise plant,' and this meaning has largely remained the same in modern usage.