'adumbrative' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'adumbrativus,' where 'ad-' meant 'toward' and 'umbra' meant 'shadow.'

'adumbrativus' transformed into the French word 'adumbratif,' and eventually became the modern English word 'adumbrative' through Middle English.

Initially, it meant 'to cast a shadow,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'foreshadowing or suggesting in a vague way.'