The Spanish alphabet includes the letter “w,” though it is not native to the language. Words beginning with this letter are almost exclusively loanwords, often of English or Germanic origin. Examples include whisky (whiskey) and waterpolo (water polo). These loanwords are generally pronounced with a ‘gw’ or sometimes a ‘v’ sound, reflecting the Spanish phonological system.
The inclusion of such terms reflects the dynamic nature of language, constantly evolving through interaction with other cultures. Recognizing these loanwords allows for a deeper understanding of how languages adapt and borrow from one another, particularly in a globalized world. Borrowings using “w” offer insights into cultural exchange and the adoption of foreign concepts or items.