'phial' originates from Greek, specifically the word 'phialē', where 'phialē' meant 'bowl' or 'container'.

'phial' changed from Latin 'phiala' and Old French 'fiale' and eventually became the modern English word 'phial' through Middle English.

Initially, it meant 'bowl' or 'cup', but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'small container for liquid'.