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pronunciation - Why is "k" added to "panic" when suffixes added (as in "panicky")?


When adding any suffix to the word "panic," a "k" is added after the "c". Examples: panicked, panicking, panicky.


Why is this the case? Are there any other English words that do the same? I'm also curious about any other words that add extra or unexpected letters when part of speech or tense changes.


The etymology of "panic" includes a Greek origin--"panikon"--which is spelled with a "k" but no "c". Does this origin have anything to do with adding the "k" in variations of "panic"? But still, why keep both the "c" and the "k" in these variations? I know many other English words use "c" and "k" together (stick, lock, back, truck), but these others consistently use "ck" in all forms ("stick," "sticky," "stuck").


Why is "panic" different?




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