The Spanish word 'tema' (meaning 'theme' or 'topic') traces back to Ancient Greek through Latin. It originated from the Greek word 'θέμα' (thema), which meant 'that which is placed' or 'subject, topic'. This Greek word was formed by combining the verb 'τίθημι' (tithemi) meaning 'to put or place' with the suffix '-μα' (-ma), which was used to form nouns indicating the result of an action. The word passed through Latin 'thema' with the same meaning before evolving into Spanish 'tema'.

The development of meaning from 'something that is placed' to 'topic' or 'theme' makes intuitive sense - imagine placing or setting down a subject for discussion.

Some related Spanish words include 'tesis' (thesis) and 'tesitura' (position/situation), which share the same Greek root of placing or putting something down.

English speakers can easily remember 'tema' by connecting it to the English word 'theme', which comes from the same Greek source. Other related English words include 'thesis', 'thematic', and 'theorem' - all of which relate to the idea of putting forward or placing down ideas or propositions for discussion.