'intelligent' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'intelligens,' where 'inter-' meant 'between' and 'legere' meant 'to choose or read.'

'intelligens' transformed into the Old French word 'intelligent,' and eventually became the modern English word 'intelligent' through Middle English.

Initially, it meant 'to choose between,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'having the ability to learn and understand.'