'productive' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'productivus,' where 'pro-' meant 'forward' and 'ducere' meant 'to lead.'

'productivus' transformed into the French word 'productif,' and eventually became the modern English word 'productive' through Middle English.

Initially, it meant 'leading forward or bringing forth,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'producing or able to produce large amounts.'