The origin of the name of Herbesthal is uncertain. The place is first mentioned in the State Archives of Liège under the name "Hardwestal". Various sources link the name to the following meanings: "Hostel in the valley", "Herbes Valley", "Herbert's place of residence" or even "Eggental". When the village was under French Empire|French] rule, it was called "Aubergeval", which can be translated as "hostel in the valley".