'thioether' originates from Greek, specifically the word 'theion,' where 'theion' meant 'sulfur,' combined with 'ether,' a class of organic compounds.

'thioether' was derived from the combination of 'thio-' meaning sulfur and 'ether,' a term used in organic chemistry.

Initially, it meant 'a sulfur-containing ether,' and this meaning has largely remained the same in modern usage.