'arctium' originates from New Latin, specifically the word 'Arctium', which ultimately comes from Greek 'arktion'/'arktios' where 'arktos' meant 'bear'.

'arctium' changed from the Greek word 'arktion' (or related forms) into New Latin 'Arctium', and it entered modern English usage as the botanical genus name 'arctium'.

Initially related to the Greek term linked with 'bear' (possibly referring to the burrs' roughness or appearance), over time it became the botanical name for burdock plants and is used to denote that genus or the plants themselves.