'frugivore' originates from Modern Latin, specifically the word 'frugivorus', where Latin 'frux, frugis' meant 'fruit' and Latin 'vorare' meant 'to devour'.

'frugivore' entered English from New/Modern Latin 'frugivorus' (constructed from 'frux' + 'vorare') and was adapted into English as 'frugivore'.

Initially a technical/bio‑logical formation meaning 'fruit‑eating' (used in scientific descriptions), the term has retained that specific meaning in modern usage.