'Bacchus' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'Bacchus', which in turn comes from the Greek 'Bakkhos'.

'Bacchus' changed from the Greek word 'Bakkhos' (Βάκχος) into Latin 'Bacchus' and was adopted into English from Latin and classical sources as 'Bacchus'.

Initially, it meant the proper name of the god of wine and ritual ecstasy in Greek and Roman religion; this basic meaning has been preserved in modern usage, though it has also been extended metaphorically to mean a reveler or devotee of wine and pleasure.