'fossil-related' originates from Modern English, specifically by combining the noun 'fossil' and the adjective 'related'. 'fossil' ultimately comes from Latin, specifically the word 'fossilis', where the root 'fodere' meant 'to dig'. 'related' comes via Latin, specifically the participle 'relatus', where the prefix 're-' meant 'back' and 'ferre' meant 'to carry/bring.'

'fossil' changed from Latin 'fossilis' (via Old French influence) into English as 'fossil' (used from the 17th century onward). 'related' developed from Latin 'relatus' through Old French forms and Middle English verbs like 'relaten' to modern 'related'. The compound 'fossil-related' is a Modern English formation combining these elements to describe things connected with fossils.

Initially, 'fossil' meant 'that which is dug up' and 'related' carried senses of 'brought back' or 'connected'. Over time, the compound 'fossil-related' evolved to mean 'connected with or concerning fossils' in scientific and general usage.