The Spanish verb 'invitar' (to invite) comes from the Latin word 'invitare', which meant 'to invite' or 'encourage'. The Latin word was formed by combining two elements: the intensive prefix 'in-' and the root '*vitus' meaning 'willing' or 'voluntary'. The combination essentially conveyed the idea of strongly encouraging someone's willing participation, which evolved into our modern concept of inviting.

Some related Spanish words include 'invitación' (invitation), 'invitado' (guest), and 'invitante' (host/person who invites). All these words share the same Latin root and maintain the core meaning related to inviting or being part of an invitation.

The English word 'invite' is a direct cognate of Spanish 'invitar', as both descend from the same Latin word 'invitare'. Other related English words include 'invitation', 'inviting', and 'invitee'. The word 'inviting' has also taken on the additional meaning of 'attractive' or 'appealing' in English, as in 'an inviting atmosphere.'