The Spanish word 'pasota' comes from combining the verb 'pasar' (to pass) with the pejorative suffix '-ota'. The verb 'pasar' itself comes from Latin 'passare' meaning 'to step, pass', which derived from Latin 'passus' (step). Going even further back, 'passus' originated from the Latin verb 'pandere' meaning 'to stretch or extend'.

The modern Spanish word 'pasota' refers to someone who is apathetic or indifferent - essentially someone who lets things 'pass by' without caring or getting involved. The pejorative suffix '-ota' adds a negative connotation to this attitude of letting things pass. This etymology reflects how the physical concept of passing or stepping evolved into the more abstract notion of letting things pass by emotionally or mentally.

Several common Spanish words share this etymology through the verb 'pasar': 'paso' (step), 'pasillo' (hallway), 'pasaje' (passage), and 'paseo' (walk, stroll). All these words maintain a connection to the original meaning of movement or passing through space, while 'pasota' took on the more metaphorical sense of letting things pass by emotionally.

English words related to this etymology include 'pass', 'passage', and 'passive', all coming from the same Latin root 'passus'. It's particularly interesting that 'passive', meaning inactive or not participating, shares a similar semantic development to 'pasota', as both evolved from physical passing to emotional or mental non-engagement. The English word 'pace' (as in walking pace) is also related, maintaining the original connection to stepping or walking.