'ethereal' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'aetherius,' where 'aether' meant 'upper air' or 'pure, fresh air.'

'aetherius' transformed into the Old French word 'etherel,' and eventually became the modern English word 'ethereal' through Middle English.

Initially, it meant 'pertaining to the upper air,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'delicate and light.'