'annelid' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'anellus,' where 'anellus' meant 'little ring.'

'anellus' transformed into the French word 'annelé,' and eventually became the modern English word 'annelid' through scientific Latin.

Initially, it meant 'little ring,' referring to the ring-like segments of the worms, and this meaning has largely remained the same in modern usage.