'calma' originates from Late Latin 'cauma', ultimately from Ancient Greek 'καῦμα' (kauma) meaning 'heat' or 'burning heat'; in Romance languages the sense shifted toward stillness at sea (lack of wind).

'calma' developed in Romance languages from Late Latin 'cauma'; the Latin term came from Greek 'καῦμα' and in medieval Romance forms the word evolved into Spanish/Italian 'calma' with the sense of stillness or lull at sea.

Initially related to 'heat' or 'swoon' (from Greek), the term shifted in Romance usage to mean a lull or lack of wind at sea and more generally quietness or tranquility.