'bicoloured' originates from a combination of Latin and Old French elements: the prefix 'bi-' derives from Latin 'bis', where 'bi-' meant 'twice' or 'two', and 'colour' comes from Old French 'colour' (from Latin 'color'), where 'color' meant 'appearance, hue'.

'bicoloured' developed from earlier English forms such as Middle English/early modern English 'bicolour' or phrases using the prefix 'bi-' plus 'colour'; the adjective form with the suffix '-ed' (bicoloured) became established in modern English.

Initially it meant 'having two colours' and this basic meaning has been largely retained into modern usage.