'chutney' originates from Hindi, specifically the word 'caṭnī', where 'caṭnā' meant 'to lick'.

'caṭnī' was adopted into English during the British colonial period in India and eventually became the modern English word 'chutney'.

Initially, it meant 'something to be licked or relished', but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'a spicy condiment made from fruits or vegetables'.