The Spanish word 'gorrión' (meaning 'sparrow') comes from Medieval Latin 'gorriones', which meant 'harsh-sounding'. This etymology reflects the characteristically chirping or chattering sound that sparrows make. The word evolved from describing the bird's sound to becoming the name for the bird itself in Spanish.

While 'gorrión' itself is a relatively common Spanish word, there aren't many simpler or more common Spanish words that share its etymology. However, you might encounter the diminutive form 'gorrioncillo' (little sparrow) or the feminine form 'gorriona', though these are less common.

There aren't any common English words directly related to 'gorrión' through etymology. English 'sparrow' comes from a different Germanic root. However, understanding that the word originated from a description of the bird's harsh sound can help English speakers remember its meaning - think of the noisy chirping of sparrows!