The Spanish word 'confeti' comes from the Italian word 'confetto', which originally referred to small candy or dragées (sugar-coated almonds). The Italian term derives from Latin 'confectus' meaning 'prepared' or 'made', which is the past participle of the verb 'conficere' ('to prepare' or 'to make'). This Latin verb was formed by combining the prefix 'cum-' ('with, together') and the verb 'facere' ('to make, to do'). Over time, the meaning evolved from referring to small candies to the small pieces of colored paper thrown at celebrations, as the practice of throwing confetti originated from the Italian tradition of throwing these sugar-coated almonds at celebrations and carnivals.

The Spanish word 'confección' (meaning 'preparation' or 'making') is related to 'confeti', as it also comes from Latin 'conficere'. Similarly, 'confeccionar' (to make or prepare, especially clothing) shares this etymological connection. These words maintain meanings closer to the original Latin sense of 'preparing' or 'making'.

Several English words share roots with 'confeti'. 'Confection' and 'confectionery' come from the same Latin source 'conficere', originally referring to prepared medicines and later to prepared sweets and candies. 'Confetti' itself was borrowed into English from Italian, just as it was into Spanish. The English word 'fact' is also related, coming from 'facere' ('to make or do'), as are many words containing '-fect' or '-fice' such as 'perfect' (thoroughly made), 'office' (work service), and 'efficient'.