'annulet' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'annulus', where 'annulus' meant 'little ring'.

'annulet' changed from Medieval Latin/Old French forms (e.g. Medieval Latin 'annuletum', Old French 'anuel'/'anolet') and eventually became the modern English word 'annulet'.

Initially, it meant 'little ring' in a general sense; over time it kept that core meaning while extending to specialized senses in heraldry (a ring-shaped charge) and architecture (a narrow band or fillet).