'autocoid' originates from Greek elements: 'auto-' meaning 'self' and the suffix '-oid' (from Greek 'oeidēs') meaning 'form' or 'likeness'.

'autocoid' was coined in English medical literature in the early 20th century as a term for tissue-produced, locally acting substances; a variant spelling 'autacoid' also appeared and both forms have been used alongside the older description 'local hormone'.

Initially it emphasized the component 'self' ('substances produced by the tissue itself'); over time it has come to be used specifically for 'locally acting biologically active mediators' rather than general self-produced substances.