'amnestic' originates from Greek, specifically the word 'amnēstikos,' where 'a-' meant 'not' and 'mnēstikos' meant 'mindful.'

'amnēstikos' transformed into the Latin word 'amnesticus,' and eventually became the modern English word 'amnestic.'

Initially, it meant 'not mindful,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'relating to amnesia.'