'gloss-coated' originates from the combination of the noun 'gloss' (meaning shine or luster) and the verb 'coat' (to cover); 'gloss' comes from Middle English 'glos(s)' and is related to Old English and Old French roots referring to shine, while 'coat' comes from Old English 'cote' meaning a covering or garment.

'gloss-coated' changed from the descriptive phrase 'coat(ed) with gloss' or earlier compounds like 'gloss coat' and gradually became the hyphenated compound adjective 'gloss-coated' in modern English, used to describe surfaces given a glossy finish.

Initially, it meant 'to cover with a glossy finish' (a literal action), and over time it retained this sense while also becoming commonly used adjectivally to describe objects that have been given such a finish.