'baalist' originates from the proper name 'Baal' (from Northwest Semitic languages), combined with the English suffix '-ist' (from Greek '-istēs') meaning 'one who practices or is concerned with'.

'Baal' entered English via Biblical Hebrew and ancient translations (through Greek and Latin); the agent-forming suffix '-ist' was attached in English to form 'baalist' to denote a worshiper of Baal.

Initially, the term specifically meant 'a follower of the god Baal'; over time it has also been used more generally to mean 'idolater' or someone who venerates false gods or false ideals.'