'forgetful' originates from Middle English, specifically the word 'forgetful,' where 'for-' meant 'away' and 'get' meant 'to grasp or hold.'

'forgetful' changed from the Middle English word 'forgetful' and eventually became the modern English word 'forgetful'.

Initially, it meant 'unable to retain or remember,' and this meaning has largely remained the same in modern usage.