'keratolytic' originates from Greek via New Latin/medical formation, specifically from the combining form 'kerato-' from Greek 'keras, keratos' meaning 'horn' and the suffix '-lytic' from Greek 'lytikos' (from 'lyein') meaning 'able to loosen or dissolve'.

'keratolytic' was formed in modern medical English (20th century) by combining the Greek-derived combining form 'kerato-' with the adjective-forming element '-lytic' (from Greek/New Latin use), producing a term meaning an agent that loosens or dissolves keratin (the 'horny' tissue).

Initially built to mean 'causing the loosening or dissolution of horn-like tissue,' it has come to be used specifically for agents or effects that soften or remove the outer keratin layer of skin (exfoliating action).