'succulence' originates from Latin, specifically from the Late Latin adjective 'succulentus' and the related noun 'succulentia', where Latin 'succus' meant 'juice' or 'sap'.

'succulentus' (Late Latin) passed into English as 'succulence' (recorded from early modern English), preserving the root from Latin rather than via a distinct Old French form.

Initially it meant 'the quality of being full of juice' (juiciness); over time the basic sense remained but was extended figuratively to denote 'richness' or 'lusciousness' in taste, texture, or expression.