'flower-like' originates from English, combining 'flower' and the suffix '-like' (from Old English 'līc' meaning 'body, form').

'flower' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'flōs, flōris', via Old French 'flor'; '-like' comes from Old English 'līc' and became productive in Middle English to form compounds such as 'flower-like'.

Initially, it meant 'having the form or appearance of a flower'; over time this basic meaning has remained stable, though usage has broadened to include metaphorical qualities reminiscent of flowers.