'isopodal' originates from Greek, specifically the elements 'isos' meaning 'equal' and 'pous/pod-' meaning 'foot'.

'isopodal' was formed in Modern English from New Latin (or Latinized) formations such as 'isopodalis' derived from the taxonomic name 'Isopoda' (itself coined from Greek 'isos' + 'pous'), ultimately tracing back to Greek roots.

Initially it meant 'having equal feet' in morphological or descriptive contexts; over time it has also come to be used more specifically to mean 'pertaining to Isopoda' (the crustacean order) while retaining the general sense of 'equal-footed'.