'flirtatious' originates from the English word 'flirt,' which is derived from the Middle English word 'flirten,' meaning 'to move quickly or jerkily.'

'flirten' transformed into the modern English word 'flirt,' and eventually led to the adjective form 'flirtatious.'

Initially, it meant 'to move quickly or jerkily,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'showing playful sexual attraction.'