The Spanish word 'maicena' (meaning 'cornstarch') has an interesting journey that starts with the Taíno word 'mahís' meaning 'corn'. This word was borrowed into English as 'maize'. In the late 19th century, the National Starch Company created a trademark 'Maizena' for their cornstarch product, derived from 'maize'. The Spanish word 'maicena' comes from this trademark, though it has become a generic term for cornstarch in Spanish-speaking countries, losing its trademark status.

The Spanish word 'maíz' (corn) is a simpler and more common related word that also comes from the same Taíno root 'mahís'. While 'maíz' refers to the corn plant and its kernels, 'maicena' specifically refers to the starch powder made from corn.

English speakers might recognize the connection to the word 'maize', which comes from the same Taíno origin. While 'maize' is less common in everyday English (where 'corn' is preferred), it's still used in scientific and formal contexts. The trademark 'Maizena' is still used in some countries, though in English-speaking regions, 'cornstarch' is the common generic term.