'auxosubstance' originates from Greek and Latin, specifically the Greek word 'auxein' (from which the prefix 'auxo-' is derived), where 'aux-' meant 'to increase, grow', and the Latin word 'substantia' meaning 'substance' or 'essence'.

'auxosubstance' was coined in scientific English by combining the Greek-derived prefix 'auxo-' with the English/Latin-rooted 'substance' (from Latin 'substantia'). It appeared in botanical and physiological literature in the late 19th to early 20th century to denote substances that promote growth; later, more specific terms such as 'auxin' or 'growth regulator' became preferred.

Initially it referred broadly to any substance causing or promoting growth; over time usage narrowed or became more specialized, and the term has largely been superseded by more specific names for particular growth hormones or regulators.