'tar-like' originates from the English word 'tar,' which refers to a dark, thick, sticky liquid derived from wood or coal, combined with the suffix '-like,' indicating resemblance.

'tar' has been used in English since the Middle Ages, derived from Old English 'teoru,' and the suffix '-like' has been used to form adjectives indicating similarity.

Initially, 'tar' referred to the substance itself, and 'tar-like' evolved to describe anything resembling tar in appearance or texture.