'macule' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'macula', where 'macula' meant 'spot' or 'stain'.

'macule' changed from the Latin word 'macula' (used in Classical and Late Latin) and passed into English medical and descriptive usage as 'macule' (via Medieval/Late Latin and influence from Old French forms meaning 'stain').

Initially, it meant 'spot' or 'stain' in general usage; over time it retained that sense but also specialized in medical terminology to mean a 'flat discoloration of the skin' (a dermatological lesion).