The Spanish word 'viento' meaning 'wind' comes directly from the Latin word 'ventus', which also meant 'wind'. During the evolution from Latin to Spanish, the 'e' in 'ventus' underwent a common sound change called diphthongization, where it became 'ie', resulting in 'viento'.

Several common Spanish words are related to 'viento', including 'ventana' (window) - which originally meant an opening to let in wind, 'ventilador' (fan), and 'ventilar' (to ventilate). All these words share the concept of air movement or wind.

English speakers can connect 'viento' to several familiar English words that come from the same Latin root 'ventus', such as 'ventilate', 'vent', 'ventilation', and even 'window' (which originally meant 'wind eye' in Old Norse). All these words maintain a connection to the concept of wind or air flow.