'viticulturalist' originates from English, specifically formed from the noun 'viticulture' plus the agent suffix '-ist', where 'viticulture' ultimately comes from Latin 'vitis' meaning 'vine' and Latin 'cultura' (from 'colere') meaning 'cultivation', and the suffix '-ist' (via French/Latin from Greek '-istes') meant 'one who practices'.

'viticulturalist' developed as a modern English formation from 'viticulture' + '-ist'. The word traces back through Middle French and Latin elements; an alternate shorter form 'viticulturist' has also appeared in English writings and both forms influenced the modern spelling and usage.

Initially it referred simply to 'one who cultivates vines'; over time the meaning has remained essentially the same but has broadened to include scientific, managerial, and advisory roles in grape-growing and winemaking.