'ambitionless' originates from the Latin word 'ambitio', meaning 'a going around (to solicit votes)', combined with the suffix '-less', indicating absence.

'ambitio' transformed into the Old French word 'ambition', and eventually became the modern English word 'ambitionless' through Middle English.

Initially, 'ambitio' referred to the act of canvassing for votes, but over time it evolved into its current meaning of lacking ambition.