'pseudonymous' originates from Greek, specifically the word 'pseudonymos,' where 'pseudo-' meant 'false' and 'onyma' meant 'name.'

'pseudonymos' transformed into the French word 'pseudonyme,' and eventually became the modern English word 'pseudonymous' through Middle English.

Initially, it meant 'having a false name,' and this meaning has largely remained the same in modern usage.