Gypsy Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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gypsy

[ˈdʒɪpsi ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

nomadic lifestyle

A member of a traditionally itinerant ethnic group with origins in South Asia, typically living a nomadic lifestyle and practicing fortune-telling or trade.

Synonyms

nomad, traveler, wanderer.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
gypsy	Traditionally, it refers to the Romani people, an ethnic group with a distinct culture and history. This term can be offensive because it is tied to stereotypes and prejudices. She wore a traditional gypsy dress. The gypsy camp was vibrant with music and laughter.
nomad	Used to describe people who move from place to place, often for cultural or survival reasons, without a permanent home. The nomad tribes have roamed this desert for centuries. As a digital nomad, he works from various countries around the world.
wanderer	Describes someone who moves about freely and often aimlessly, without a clear destination or purpose. It often evokes a more poetic or romantic image. He is a wanderer by nature, never staying in one place too long. The wanderer walked through the forest, lost in thought.
traveler	A general term for anyone who moves from one location to another, usually for leisure, business, or exploring new places. She is an avid traveler who has visited over 30 countries. The travelers gathered at the station, ready to board the train.

Examples of usage

She lived like a gypsy, traveling from place to place with no permanent home.
The gypsy woman told fortunes using her crystal ball.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

informal

A person who is unconventional, nonconforming, or free-spirited.

Synonyms

bohemian, free spirit, nonconformist.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
gypsy	This term is often used to describe a person who leads a nomadic lifestyle, frequently traveling and not settling in one place. It can be seen as derogatory towards the Roma people, so it's important to be cautious when using it. She lived like a gypsy, moving from city to city.
bohemian	This word is typically used to describe someone who lives an artistic, unconventional lifestyle, often with a focus on freedom and creativity. It carries a positive connotation and is popular in artistic and literary circles. The artist's bohemian lifestyle inspired many.
free spirit	This phrase is used to describe someone who is independent, carefree, and not bound by societal norms. It has a positive tone, celebrating individualism and freedom. She's a free spirit who always follows her own path.
nonconformist	This term is used to describe someone who does not conform to societal norms or expectations. It can be either positive or negative, depending on the context and the perspective of the speaker. As a nonconformist, he rejected traditional career paths.

Examples of usage

She was a free-spirited gypsy, always following her own path.
The artist was known for being a gypsy, rejecting traditional norms.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Origin of 'gypsy'

The term 'gypsy' is a controversial and potentially derogatory term used to describe the Romani people, an ethnic group with origins in South Asia. The word has been historically associated with stereotypes and discrimination. The Romani people have faced persecution and marginalization throughout history. It is important to be aware of the negative connotations of the term and to use it with caution and sensitivity.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #17,487, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.

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17484 immediacy
17485 balsam
17486 fainted
17487 gypsy
17488 landlady
17489 spotting
17490 testicular
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