'aphroditic' originates from Ancient Greek, specifically the word 'Aphrodítē' (Ἀφροδίτη), where the root 'aphros' meant 'foam' (referencing her mythical birth from the sea foam).

'aphroditic' was formed in English from the name 'Aphrodite' plus the adjectival suffix '-ic', via Late Latin and Medieval/Modern usage of classical names; the element 'Aphrodite' itself comes from Ancient Greek 'Aphrodítē' and the name was adapted into English through classical scholarship.

Initially, usages referred specifically to things 'pertaining to Aphrodite' (i.e., classical, mythological associations); over time the sense broadened to denote things that are 'sexual' or 'arousing sexual desire,' reflecting the goddess's association with love and sexuality.