'Antaios' originates from Ancient Greek, specifically the name 'Ανταῖος' (Antaios).

'Ανταῖος' was recorded in Latin as 'Antaeus' and was transmitted into English via classical texts and translations, appearing as 'Antaeus' or the Hellenized form 'Antaios' in modern usage.

Initially the term denoted the proper name of a mythological figure; over time it has remained primarily a proper name but is also used allusively in literature to evoke a towering, earth-linked strength.