'phylloxera' originates from New Latin 'Phylloxera', formed from Greek elements 'phyllo-' meaning 'leaf' and a second element '-xera' (from Greek roots related to dryness or withering), used in scientific taxonomy.

'phylloxera' entered scientific and common English usage in the 19th century (via New Latin and usages in French and scientific literature) after the insect was identified as the cause of widespread vine damage; the term then became standard in viticulture discourse.

Initially used as a taxonomic/scientific name for the genus (and related leaf-galling insects), it came to be used more broadly for the particular grapevine pest responsible for large-scale vineyard destruction.