'baal' originates from Northwest Semitic (Hebrew), specifically the word 'baʿal' (בַּעַל), where the root meant 'owner, master, husband'.

'baʿal' was used in ancient Semitic languages as a common noun and as a title for local gods; it entered Greek and Latin texts as 'Baal' and was transmitted via Biblical and classical writings into Medieval and Modern English as 'Baal' (plural 'baals').

Initially it meant 'owner' or 'master'; over time it became a proper name/title for local deities, and in later monotheistic religious contexts it acquired a negative/pejorative sense as a 'false god'.