Latin: This is the most obvious influence, as Spanish is a Romance language, meaning it descended from Vulgar Latin spoken in the Iberian Peninsula. The vast majority of Spanish vocabulary and grammar comes directly from Latin.
Arabic: During the Moorish rule of the Iberian Peninsula (711-1492), Arabic left a significant mark on Spanish. This is seen in words related to agriculture, astronomy, mathematics, and everyday life, such as:
* Alfalfa: Alfalfa
* Azúcar: Sugar
* Algodón: Cotton
* Aceite: Oil
Greek: Greek words entered the Spanish language through Latin and Arabic, but also directly through contact with Greek culture. Some examples:
* Teléfono: Telephone
* Música: Music
* Teatro: Theatre
Indigenous languages of the Americas: Following the Spanish colonization of the Americas, Spanish borrowed many words from indigenous languages, particularly Nahuatl (spoken in Mexico) and Quechua (spoken in the Andes). Examples include:
* Chocolate: Chocolate
* Cacao: Cacao
* Guacamole: Guacamole
* Tomato: Tomato
* Potato: Potato
French: French influence is noticeable in some words and phrases, particularly in the vocabulary of fashion, cuisine, and culture. Examples include:
* Ropa: Clothing
* Bistró: Bistro
* Chofer: Driver
English: In modern times, English has become an increasingly important influence on Spanish, especially in the fields of technology, business, and popular culture. This is evident in the numerous English loanwords and the use of "Spanglish", a blend of Spanish and English. Examples include:
* Internet: Internet
* Email: Email
* Software: Software
* Cooler: Cooler
It's important to note that the extent of each influence varies depending on the region and historical context. For example, Arabic influence is more prevalent in Spain than in Latin America, while indigenous American languages are more prominent in Latin America.