'elytral' originates from New Latin/Modern Latin, specifically formed from 'elytron' (from Greek 'elytron'), where the Greek 'elytron' meant 'sheath' or 'cover'.

'elytral' changed from the New Latin/Modern Latin adjective based on 'elytron' (Greek 'elytron' 'sheath'), with 'elytron' being adopted into scientific Latin/English as the noun 'elytron' and then adapted into the adjective 'elytral' in English usage.

Initially the root 'elytron' meant 'sheath' or 'cover' (in Greek); over time the related English adjective 'elytral' came to mean specifically 'relating to the hardened forewings (elytra) of certain insects, especially beetles.'