'apprehensive' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'apprehensivus,' where 'apprehendere' meant 'to seize or grasp.'

'apprehensivus' transformed into the French word 'apprehensif,' and eventually became the modern English word 'apprehensive' through Middle English.

Initially, it meant 'capable of understanding or perceiving,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'anxious or fearful.'