'halophilic' originates from Greek elements via New Latin/Modern scientific coinage: the combining form 'halo-' from Greek 'hals/halos' meaning 'salt' and the suffix '-philic' from Greek 'philos' meaning 'loving' or 'fond of'.

'halophilic' was formed in modern scientific English (20th century) by combining 'halo-' + '-philic' (compare noun 'halophile' for a salt-loving organism), becoming the adjective used to describe salt-loving organisms and conditions.

Initially coined to denote an affinity for salt ('salt-loving'); the meaning has remained specialized but broadened to describe organisms, enzymes, habitats, and traits adapted to saline conditions.