Norcolute is spelled as /nɔːkəluːt/. The word is a combination of two common English words, "norco" and "lute". "Norco" is a brand-name for painkillers containing a combination of acetaminophen and hydrocodone, which can be addictive when misused. A "lute" is a musical instrument similar to a guitar, but with a rounded body and a fretboard that is longer. Therefore, Norcolute may allude to either the pain-relieving effect of the norco medication or the soothing connotation of the lute instrument.