'ethical' originates from Greek, specifically the word 'ēthikos,' where 'ēthos' meant 'character' or 'moral nature.'

'ēthikos' transformed into the Latin word 'ethicus,' and eventually became the modern English word 'ethical' through Old French 'éthique.'

Initially, it meant 'pertaining to character or morals,' and this meaning has largely remained the same in modern usage.