The Spanish alphabet, derived from the Latin, traditionally contains 27 letters. While ‘w’ is included, it’s primarily used for loanwords from other languages, particularly English, German, and Polish. Examples include “whisky” (whiskey), “waterpolo” (water polo), and “wolframio” (tungsten). These borrowed terms retain their original spelling, enriching the lexicon with specialized vocabulary and cultural references.
Loanwords beginning with ‘w’ reflect the dynamic nature of language and the interplay between cultures. Their adoption fills lexical gaps, providing concise ways to express new concepts or technologies. Understanding these terms provides insight into the historical and cultural influences shaping the Spanish language. While less common than words starting with other letters, they are essential for comprehensive communication, especially in technical, scientific, and international contexts.