The Spanish alphabet includes the letter “k,” though it appears less frequently than in other languages like English or German. Lexical items originating with this letter are often borrowed from other languages, particularly Greek, or are used in scientific, technical, or proper nouns. Examples include “kilmetro” (kilometer), “kerosene” (kerosene), and “Kuwait” (Kuwait). Additionally, the letter “k” can appear in loanwords from indigenous languages of the Americas.
Understanding these lexical items provides insight into the evolution and influences on the Spanish language. Recognizing the less frequent use of this initial letter allows for a more nuanced understanding of Spanish orthography and etymology. This knowledge can be particularly helpful for language learners, translators, and anyone working with specialized vocabulary. Furthermore, studying these terms offers a glimpse into the cultural and historical exchange between Spanish and other languages.