'chaeta' originates from Greek, specifically the word 'χαίτη' (khaítē), where it meant 'hair' or 'mane.'

'χαίτη' transformed into the Latin word 'chaeta,' and eventually became the modern English word 'chaeta.'

Initially, it meant 'hair' or 'mane,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'bristle on an organism.'