The Spanish word 'manivela', meaning 'crank' or 'handle', traces its origins back to the Latin word 'manualis', meaning 'manual' or 'handled by hand'. This Latin word evolved into Old French 'manuelle' meaning 'handle' or 'grip', which then developed into French 'manivelle' with the more specific meaning of 'crank' or 'handle'. The Spanish 'manivela' was borrowed directly from French 'manivelle', maintaining the same meaning.

Several common Spanish words share the same Latin root 'manualis': 'mano' (hand), 'manual' (manual, handbook), and 'manejo' (handling, management). These words all relate to the concept of handling things with hands, just like a 'manivela' is a handle that you turn with your hand.

English speakers can connect 'manivela' to several familiar English words that come from the same Latin root: 'manual' (done by hand), 'manipulate' (to handle or control), and 'manage' (originally meaning to handle or train horses). All these words share the core meaning of handling something by hand, just as a 'manivela' is a device handled and turned by hand.