'bivalve' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'bivalvis,' where 'bi-' meant 'two' and 'valva' meant 'leaf of a door.'

'bivalvis' transformed into the French word 'bivalve,' and eventually became the modern English word 'bivalve' through Middle English.

Initially, it meant 'having two leaves or valves,' and this meaning has largely remained the same in modern usage.