French word chaudière translated means "a pot," developed from chaud, "hot" (also related to the Latin Calderia and English Cauldron). The word "chowder" is a New England word that came from Newfoundland, where Breton fishermen — who would throw portions of the day's catch and other available foods into a large pot — introduced the word, and perhaps the fish soup itself (compare bouillabaisse). Another possible origin for the word Chowder is derived from the Old English "jowter", which means fishmonger (one who peddles fish).

Fish chowder, along with corn and clam chowder, continues to enjoy popularity in New England.

Chowder competitions
Newport, Rhode Island's Great Chowder Cook-Off, held each year since 1981, is the world's largest and oldest chowder competition. The 2003 event was featured in a Food Network documentary.