While the Spanish alphabet includes the letter “k,” its use is primarily confined to loanwords, scientific terms, and proper nouns, particularly those of foreign origin. Examples include “kilmetro” (kilometer), “kerosene” (kerosene), and “Kafka” (Kafka). Words originating within the Spanish language itself rarely begin with this letter.
The scarcity of words originating from Spanish that begin with “k” offers a glimpse into the evolution of the language. This limited usage contrasts sharply with languages like English or German, highlighting the distinct phonetic preferences and historical influences that have shaped Spanish. Understanding this characteristic contributes to a more nuanced appreciation of the language’s structure and its relationship to other languages. It also underscores the importance of etymology in deciphering the origins and meanings of words.