'neglectful' originates from the Latin word 'neglectus,' where 'neg-' meant 'not' and 'legere' meant 'to pick up or choose.'

'neglectus' transformed into the Old French word 'negliger,' and eventually became the modern English word 'neglect' through Middle English.

Initially, it meant 'not choosing or picking up,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'failing to care for properly.'