'balaamite' originates from Late Latin/Medieval Latin, specifically the word 'Balaamita', where 'Balaam' referred to the Old Testament prophet Balaam.

'balaamite' changed from Medieval Latin 'Balaamita' (and Anglo-Norman/Old French forms) into Middle English (e.g. 'Balaamit' or similar spellings) and eventually became the modern English word 'balaamite'.

Initially, it meant 'a follower or adherent of Balaam' (a literal, historical reference); over time it evolved to mean more generally 'a corrupter or one who leads others into sin or error' and can be used figuratively.