In terms of etymological origin, the word 'biscuit' comes from the Latin 'bis coctus', meaning 'twice baked'. This is because biscuits are traditionally baked twice to make them crispy and durable. The practice of baking cakes twice dates back to ancient Rome, when bakers baked hard bread for long shipments. Over time, the practice was extended to cakes, giving rise to biscuits as we know them today.