'petulant' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'petulans,' where 'petere' meant 'to seek or attack.'

'petulans' transformed into the French word 'petulant,' and eventually became the modern English word 'petulant' through Middle English.

Initially, it meant 'forward or immodest,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'easily irritated or annoyed.'