'amputative' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'amputare,' where 'am-' meant 'off' and 'putare' meant 'to prune or cut.'

'amputare' transformed into the French word 'amputer,' and eventually became the modern English word 'amputate,' from which 'amputative' is derived.

Initially, it meant 'to cut off or prune,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'relating to amputation.'