'water-loving' originates from the combination of 'water' and 'loving', where 'water' refers to the liquid essential for life and 'loving' indicates a strong affinity or preference.

'Water-loving' has remained consistent in its usage, combining the elements 'water' and 'loving' to describe an affinity for water.

Initially, it meant 'having a preference for water', and this meaning has largely remained the same in modern usage.