'bestial' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'bestialis,' where 'bestia' meant 'animal'.

'bestial' changed from the Old French word 'bestial' (from Late Latin 'bestialis') and eventually became the modern English word 'bestial' through Middle English.

Initially, it meant 'of or relating to beasts,' but over time it came also to mean 'savage or cruel' in reference to behavior or actions.