The Spanish word 'chiquito' meaning 'very small' comes from combining the Spanish word 'chico' (meaning 'small') with the diminutive suffix '-ito'. The base word 'chico' can be traced back to the Latin word 'ciccum', which referred to the membrane of a pomegranate or, more generally, a trifle or something insignificant. Over time, this notion of something tiny or insignificant evolved into the general meaning of 'small' in Spanish.

The most obvious related Spanish word is 'chico', meaning 'small' or when used as a noun, 'boy'. This is actually the base word from which 'chiquito' is formed. Spanish speakers frequently use 'chico' in everyday speech, and it's one of the first words Spanish students learn for expressing size. The diminutive form 'chiquito' adds an extra layer of smallness or endearment to the already small meaning of 'chico'.

While there aren't any common English words directly related to 'chiquito' through the Latin 'ciccum', English speakers might be familiar with the word 'chic' borrowed from French, though this is etymologically unrelated despite the similar sound. However, English has borrowed 'chico' directly from Spanish, particularly in southwestern United States dialect, where it can be used to mean 'boy' or 'guy'.