'decolonial' originates from the prefix 'de-' meaning 'reverse' or 'undo' and the word 'colonial,' which comes from Latin 'colonia,' meaning 'settlement.'

'decolonial' evolved from the concept of 'decolonization,' which became prominent in the mid-20th century as countries sought independence from colonial powers.

Initially, it referred to the process of gaining independence from colonial rule, but now it also encompasses broader cultural and intellectual movements against colonial legacies.