The Spanish word 'predilecto' meaning 'favorite' or 'preferred' has an interesting Latin origin that combines several elements. It starts with the Latin verb 'legere' meaning 'to choose' or 'to read'. This was combined with the prefix 'dis-' (meaning 'apart' or 'away') to form 'diligere', which took on the meaning 'to love' or 'esteem'. From this verb came the Latin word 'dilectus' meaning 'beloved' or 'chosen'. Finally, the Latin prefix 'prae-' (meaning 'before' or 'in front of') was added to create the Spanish 'predilecto', literally suggesting someone or something 'chosen before' others or 'preferred above' others.

Some related Spanish words include 'dilecto' (beloved, dear), which comes directly from Latin 'dilectus' without the 'pre-' prefix. Another related word is 'leer' (to read), which evolved from the same Latin root 'legere'. The connection between reading and choosing might seem strange at first, but in ancient times, reading was seen as a process of selecting and gathering information from text.

Several English words share roots with 'predilecto'. The word 'legible' (able to be read) comes from the same Latin root 'legere'. 'Diligent' also comes from 'diligere', but while Spanish maintained the meaning related to preference and love, English developed the sense of being careful and hardworking - originally from the idea of 'taking delight in' something. The word 'lecture' is another relative, coming from the reading/choosing sense of 'legere'.