'horehound' originates from Old English, specifically the word 'hārhūne', where 'hār' meant 'hoary' (gray or white) and 'hūne' referred to the plant itself.

'hārhūne' changed from Old English to Middle English as 'horehoun', and eventually became the modern English word 'horehound'.

Initially, it meant 'a grayish or hoary plant', but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'a specific plant used in medicine and flavoring, and the candy made from it'.