The Spanish word 'comando' (meaning 'commando unit') comes from the Spanish verb 'comandar' (to command), which was borrowed from Italian 'comandare'. The Italian word was formed from three Latin elements: the prefix 'con-' meaning 'together/with', 'manus' meaning 'hand', and 'dare' meaning 'to give'. These elements combined to create the concept of 'giving orders' or 'commanding', literally suggesting the idea of 'giving direction with/by hand'.

The meaning evolved from the general sense of commanding to specifically refer to a military commando unit - a specialized combat unit that carries out specific commands or missions.

Several common Spanish words share this etymology, including 'mandar' (to order/command), 'mando' (command/control), and 'comandante' (commander). All these words preserve the core meaning of giving direction or having authority. The word 'mano' (hand) is also distantly related, as it comes from the same Latin root 'manus'.

English speakers might recognize the connection to words like 'command', 'commando', 'mandate', and 'mandatory', which all share the same Latin origins. The word 'manual' is also related, coming from Latin 'manus' (hand), as it originally referred to something done by hand. This connection between hands and authority/control is preserved in English phrases like 'handling a situation' or 'taking matters into one's own hands'.