'aubusson' originates from French, specifically the place name 'Aubusson' (the town), used in English to refer to the tapestries or carpets made there.

'Aubusson' as a place name was adopted into English in the 18th century to denote the woven products from that town; the English noun 'aubusson' developed from the French town name and the reputation of its weavers.

Initially it referred to the place 'Aubusson'; over time it came to mean the distinctive tapestry or carpet produced in that town and, by extension, items made in the same style.