'perceptive' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'perceptivus,' where 'percipere' meant 'to seize or understand.'

'perceptivus' transformed into the French word 'perceptif,' and eventually became the modern English word 'perceptive' through Middle English.

Initially, it meant 'to seize or understand,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'having keen insight or understanding.'