The Spanish word 'embarazada' meaning 'pregnant' has an interesting etymology that starts with the Portuguese word 'baraça', meaning 'cord' or 'rope'. This developed into the Portuguese verb 'embaraçar' meaning 'to entangle' or 'impede'. The word then entered Spanish as 'embarazar', keeping similar meanings of 'to impede' but also developing the specific meaning 'to make pregnant'. The modern form 'embarazada' is the past participle of 'embarazar', formed with the suffix '-ada'.

The semantic development from 'rope/cord' to 'pregnant' can be understood through the intermediate meaning of being 'entangled' or 'impeded' - pregnancy being seen metaphorically as a state where a woman is 'encumbered' or 'impeded' by carrying a child.

A related and more common Spanish word is the verb 'embarazar' itself, which can mean both 'to make pregnant' and 'to hinder/impede'. You might also encounter 'embarazo' meaning 'pregnancy' or 'obstacle/impediment'. These words all share the core concept of something that entangles or impedes movement.

While there aren't direct English cognates, English speakers should be careful not to confuse 'embarazada' with 'embarrassed' - this is a famous 'false friend' that can lead to awkward misunderstandings! Despite their similar appearance, these words have completely different etymologies and meanings.