'mugwort' originates from Old English, specifically the word 'mucgwyrt', where 'mucg' meant 'mug' and 'wyrt' meant 'root or plant'.

'mucgwyrt' transformed into the Middle English word 'mugwort', and eventually became the modern English word 'mugwort'.

Initially, it referred to the plant used in brewing, but over time it evolved into its current meaning of a medicinal and culinary herb.