'polyp' originates from Greek, specifically the word 'polypous,' where 'poly-' meant 'many' and 'pous' meant 'foot.'

'polypous' changed from the Greek word 'polypous' and eventually became the modern English word 'polyp'.

Initially, it meant 'many-footed creature,' but over time it evolved into its current meanings related to growths and sea creatures.