'fluorochrome' originates from the combining form 'fluoro-' (from 'fluorescence', ultimately linked to Latin 'fluere' meaning 'to flow' and the mineral name 'fluor') and Greek 'chroma' meaning 'color'.

'fluorochrome' was coined in scientific English in the 20th century by combining 'fluoro-' (referring to fluorescence or fluorescent properties) with 'chrome'/'chroma' (color), to name colored substances that fluoresce; it entered technical usage to describe fluorescent dyes and labels.

Initially, roots emphasized 'color' (from Greek 'chroma') and 'fluoro-' indicated fluorescence; the combined term has come to mean specifically a fluorescent dye or label used in laboratory and clinical imaging techniques.