Romani Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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Romani

[ˈrɒməni ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

culture

A member of a people with dark skin and hair who speak Romany and traditionally live by seasonal work, itinerant trade, and fortune-telling.

Synonyms

Roma, Romany, gypsy.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
Romani	Generally used in a respectful and neutral context to refer to the people, language, and culture. Suitable for formal and informal discussions about the ethnic group. The Romani have a rich cultural heritage. Romani traditions are celebrated by many.
gypsy	Historically, this term has been used to describe the Romani people, but it can be seen as outdated and potentially offensive. It's best to avoid using it unless you are sure it is appropriate in the specific context. Some people find the term 'gypsy' offensive. He dressed like a gypsy for the costume party.
Roma	This term is used primarily to refer to the ethnic group when talking about them in a respectful manner. It is often the preferred term in discussions about human rights and social issues. The Roma community faces many challenges. Roma culture is diverse and unique.
Romany	Similar to 'Romani', 'Romany' can be used to refer to the people, language, or culture. It is less common but still respectful. She speaks Romany fluently. Romany traditions are an important part of their identity.

Examples of usage

Many Romani people travel across Europe in caravans.
Romani culture is rich in music and dance.
Romani traditions are passed down through generations.
Romani language is of Indo-Aryan origin.
The Romani people have faced discrimination and persecution.

^{Context #2 | Adjective}

description

Relating to the Romani people or their language.

Synonyms

Roma, Romany, gypsy.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
Romani	This term is typically used in formal or academic contexts to refer to the ethnic group originating from Northern India and spread throughout Europe and the Americas. It is respectful and widely accepted, especially in academic writing and official documents. The Romani people have a rich cultural heritage. Romani communities often face discrimination in various parts of the world.
gypsy	This term has pejorative connotations and is often considered offensive. It is advised to avoid using 'Gypsy' due to its negative historical baggage and association with stereotypes. It's occasionally used in literary contexts or old texts but should be avoided in modern, respectful conversation. The word 'Gypsy' should be avoided due to its derogatory implications. In the past, 'Gypsy' was used to describe people of Romani descent, but it's not respectful today.
Roma	This term is respectful and commonly used in European contexts, as well as in official documents regarding the Romani people. It highlights the plurality within the Romani community and is often used in policymaking and social discourse. The European Union has initiatives to support the Roma communities. Many Roma face challenges related to social integration and discrimination.
Romany	This term is synonymous with Romani and is used similarly to describe the people and their language. It can be found in both formal and informal contexts, though it is slightly less common than 'Romani'. She studied the Romany language and culture at university. Romany traditions are celebrated in many parts of Europe.

Examples of usage

She comes from a Romani background.
The Romani community celebrates their heritage.
Romani music is known for its lively rhythms.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Cultural Significance

Romani culture features distinctive music and dance styles, with vibrant performances highlighting their heritage.
The Romani celebrate numerous traditional festivals, where music, storytelling, and community play vital roles.

Historical Context

Romani people have faced significant discrimination and persecution throughout history, particularly during the Holocaust.
The first recorded instances of Romani migration into Europe date back to the 14th century, starting from northern India.

Modern Influences

Romani musicians have influenced various musical genres, including jazz, flamenco, and Eastern European folk music.
Many Romani communities today advocate for their rights and cultural heritage, striving for recognition and equality.

Social Issues

Romani people often face social exclusion and poverty, leading to ongoing struggles for access to education and healthcare.
Cultural stereotypes have contributed to misunderstandings and continued marginalization of Romani communities.

Origin of 'Romani'

Main points about word origin

The term 'Romani' derives from the word 'Roma,' meaning 'people' in their own language.
The word 'gypsy,' often used historically, comes from 'Egyptians,' as early European settlers thought Romani people came from Egypt.

The term 'Romani' refers to the ethnic group living mostly in Europe with roots in South Asia. They are also known as Roma or Romany people. The Romani language, Romani culture, and traditions have a long and complex history. The Romani people have often been marginalized and faced discrimination throughout history. Despite these challenges, the Romani community has preserved its unique identity and continues to contribute to the cultural diversity of the world.