'chorale' originates from French, specifically the word 'chorale', which comes from Late Latin 'choralis' and ultimately from Greek 'khoros' meaning 'chorus'.

'chorale' entered English via French and Late Latin; Late Latin 'choralis' (relating to a chorus) derived from Greek 'khoros' and through Medieval/Modern French became the English 'chorale'.

Initially it meant 'of or relating to a chorus' (adjectival sense), and over time it came to refer specifically to a 'hymn tune' or a 'choral piece' in modern English.