'impulsive' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'impulsivus,' where 'impuls-' meant 'pushed or driven.'

'impulsivus' transformed into the French word 'impulsif,' and eventually became the modern English word 'impulsive' through Middle English.

Initially, it meant 'driven by a force,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'acting without forethought.'