The Spanish word 'bizcochito' comes from combining 'bizcocho' (meaning 'biscuit') with the diminutive suffix '-ito'. The word 'bizcocho' itself has Latin roots, formed from 'bis-' meaning 'twice' and 'coctus' meaning 'cooked'. This etymology reflects the traditional preparation method of biscuits, which were originally baked twice to make them dry and long-lasting. The diminutive '-ito' makes it mean 'small biscuit' or 'cookie', and bizcochitos are particularly known as traditional New Mexican cookies.

The most obvious related Spanish word is 'bizcocho', which means 'biscuit' or 'cake'. While 'bizcochito' specifically refers to a small, anise-flavored cookie, 'bizcocho' is used more broadly for various types of baked goods. The diminutive suffix '-ito' is extremely common in Spanish and appears in many words to indicate smallness or endearment, like 'perrito' (little dog) or 'gatito' (little cat).

The English word 'biscuit' shares the same Latin roots as 'bizcochito'. Both come from the concept of 'twice-cooked' (bis + coctus). While the English 'biscuit' can refer to different things in British English (a sweet cookie) and American English (a soft, bread-like baked good), it maintains its connection to the original meaning of being a baked item. The word 'bisque' (as in the soup) also shares the Latin root 'bis-', though it developed along a different path.