The Spanish word 'mayéutica' comes from the Ancient Greek word 'μαιευτική' (maieutike), which was the feminine form of 'μαιευτικός' (maieutikos), meaning 'relating to midwifery'. This term took on a metaphorical meaning in philosophy thanks to Socrates, who compared his method of helping others give birth to knowledge through questioning to a midwife helping deliver a baby. Just as a midwife helps bring new life into the world, the Socratic method helps bring new ideas and understanding into a person's mind through careful questioning. The Spanish word preserved this philosophical meaning, referring specifically to the Socratic method of teaching through questions that lead students to realize truths on their own.

There aren't many common Spanish words that are directly related to 'mayéutica', as it remains a specialized term primarily used in philosophical and educational contexts.

While there isn't a direct cognate in common English usage, the term 'maieutic' exists as a technical term in English philosophy, also referring to the Socratic method. Like its Spanish counterpart, it comes from the same Greek root relating to midwifery. The English word 'midwife' itself, though not etymologically related, expresses the same concept that inspired the metaphorical meaning of 'mayéutica' - someone who assists in bringing forth new life, or in the Socratic sense, new knowledge.