The term 'Swiss' entered English in the 16th century from the Middle French 'Suisse'. Its ultimate origin is the Old High German name 'Suittes', referring to the people of the canton of Schwyz. This canton was a leading member of the early alliance that formed the core of modern Switzerland. Over time, the name of this specific group was generalized in other languages to denote the entire confederation and its inhabitants, solidifying its use as a national demonym in English.

The word 'Swiss' is a simplex loanword. It originates from the Middle French word 'Suisse', which itself derives from the German demonym 'Schwyz', the name of a canton and its people central to the founding of the Swiss Confederacy.