'larvacean' originates from New Latin 'Larvacea' (a taxonomic name), ultimately derived from Latin 'larva' meaning 'ghost' or 'mask' and the taxonomic suffix '-acea'/'-acea' used to form group names.

'Larvacea' (New Latin, used for the group of tunicates) gave rise to the English adjective/noun 'larvacean' to refer to members of that group; the modern English form developed in scientific usage in the 19th century.

Initially used as a scientific taxonomic name referring to the group (Larvacea); over time the English term 'larvacean' came to be used commonly for individual members of that group and for the animals' described lifestyle (small, tadpole-like, mucous-house-building tunicates).