'consequential' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'consequentia,' where 'con-' meant 'together' and 'sequi' meant 'to follow.'

'consequentia' transformed into the French word 'conséquent,' and eventually became the modern English word 'consequential' through Middle English.

Initially, it meant 'following as a result,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'having significant consequences.'