The Spanish word 'whisky' comes directly from English 'whisky', which has a fascinating origin in the Gaelic language. It derives from the Gaelic phrase 'uisce beatha', which literally meant 'water of life'. This phrase combined two Gaelic words: 'uisce' meaning 'water' and 'beatha' meaning 'life'. Over time, English speakers adapted the pronunciation of 'uisce beatha' to 'whisky', and this form was later borrowed into Spanish with the same spelling and meaning.

Since 'whisky' entered Spanish directly from English in relatively recent times, there aren't any simpler or more common Spanish words that share its etymology.

The English word 'whiskey' (or 'whisky') is obviously related, being the direct source of the Spanish word. Interestingly, both spellings are used in English: 'whiskey' is more common in Ireland and the United States, while 'whisky' is preferred in Scotland and Canada. The variation 'usquebaugh', though rare and archaic, is also related, being a more direct rendering of the original Gaelic 'uisce beatha'.