'anthelix' originates from New Latin, formed from Greek elements: 'anti-' and 'helix', where 'anti-' meant 'opposite' and 'helix' meant 'a spiral; something coiled'.

'anthelix' was coined in New Latin anatomical usage from the Greek components and was adopted into English medical and anatomical terminology with little change in form.

Initially, it referred specifically to the ridge opposite the helix in the outer ear, and this specific anatomical meaning has been retained in modern usage.