The Spanish word 'barrica' meaning 'barrel' comes from the Gascon word 'barrique' with the same meaning. Gascon is a regional language historically spoken in southwestern France. The Gascon term itself derives from an ancient Celtic root '*barrica', also meaning 'barrel'. This shows how wine-making terminology in Spanish sometimes has Celtic origins, as the Celts were influential in early European wine production and storage techniques.

The Spanish word 'barril' (barrel) is a close relative of 'barrica', both referring to containers for storing wine and other liquids. Another related term is 'barricada' (barricade), which historically referred to a barrier made of barrels, though its meaning has broadened over time to any kind of improvised barrier.

English speakers might recognize the connection to the word 'barrique', which is used in English wine terminology to refer specifically to a type of wine barrel, particularly those used in Bordeaux. The English word 'barricade' is also related, having entered English through French, ultimately sharing the same Celtic ancestor as Spanish 'barrica'.