The Spanish lexicon contains a limited number of terms originating with the letter ‘x’. These terms often retain their original spellings from borrowed words, primarily of Greek or Nahuatl (Aztec) origin. Examples include xenofobia (xenophobia) and xilfono (xylophone), demonstrating the preservation of Greek roots, and xocoatl (the origin of the word chocolate), reflecting the Nahuatl influence. Many words historically spelled with ‘x’ have evolved to use ‘j’ in modern Spanish orthography.
Understanding this limited subset of vocabulary enhances comprehension of etymological influences on the Spanish language and demonstrates the evolution of pronunciation and spelling over time. The preservation of ‘x’ in certain words offers glimpses into historical language contact and cultural exchange. Studying these terms allows for a deeper appreciation of the richness and complexity of Spanish etymology.