The Spanish word 'liga' meaning 'band' or 'tie' comes from the Spanish verb 'ligar' ('to bind' or 'tie'), which in turn derives from the Latin verb 'ligare', also meaning 'to bind' or 'tie'. This is a straightforward evolution where the meaning has remained remarkably consistent from Latin through to modern Spanish, with the noun form 'liga' specifically referring to the physical object used for binding or tying.

A closely related and commonly used Spanish word is the verb 'ligar', which means 'to bind' or 'tie'. In modern Spanish, 'ligar' has also taken on additional meanings, including 'to flirt' or 'to pick up' (in a romantic context), metaphorically referring to forming connections between people. The noun 'liga' is also used in various contexts, such as in 'liga deportiva' (sports league), where it represents a binding or joining together of teams.

Several English words share the same Latin root 'ligare'. These include 'ligament' (the tissue that connects bones), 'ligature' (something used for tying or binding), and 'league' (as in a group bound together for a common purpose). The word 'ally' also comes from this root, from Latin 'alligare' meaning 'to bind to', showing how the concept of binding or connecting has evolved into political and social contexts.