The Spanish word 'discente' meaning 'student' comes from the Latin present participle 'discens' meaning 'learning', which itself derives from the Latin verb 'discere' meaning 'to learn'. The form 'discens' was created by adding the Latin present participle suffix '-nt' to the verb stem. Over time, this participle evolved into Spanish as 'discente', maintaining its connection to learning but specifically referring to one who is learning - a student.

While 'discente' itself is not extremely common in modern Spanish, you might recognize its root in the more frequently used Spanish word 'disciplina' (discipline) and 'discípulo' (disciple), which share the same Latin learning-related root. These words all maintain a connection to the concept of learning and education.

English speakers might recognize this same Latin root in words like 'disciple' (a follower or student), 'discipline' (training or control, originally referring to instruction), and 'didactic' (intended to teach). The connection to learning and education remains clear in these English cognates, though they've developed slightly different nuances over time.