Romany Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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Romany

[ˈrɒməni ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

culture

The Romany people are an ethnic group with origins in South Asia, traditionally known for their nomadic lifestyle. They have their own language, Romani, and are spread throughout the world.

Synonyms

Roma, gypsy.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
Romany	Utilize 'Romany' when referring to the language spoken by the Roma people or to name their culture and traditions. She is fluent in Romany. Romany culture has a rich heritage.
gypsy	This term is often viewed as derogatory or offensive. It should be avoided in most contexts. It may sometimes be used in a historical or literary context, but with caution and sensitivity. The old book referred to traveling gypsies, but such language is outdated.
Roma	Use 'Roma' when referring to the ethnic group native to Europe, which is the most accepted and respectful term today. The Roma people have a vibrant cultural heritage. Many Roma communities live in Eastern Europe.

Word

Description / Examples

Romany

Utilize 'Romany' when referring to the language spoken by the Roma people or to name their culture and traditions.

She is fluent in Romany.
Romany culture has a rich heritage.

gypsy

This term is often viewed as derogatory or offensive. It should be avoided in most contexts. It may sometimes be used in a historical or literary context, but with caution and sensitivity.

The old book referred to traveling gypsies, but such language is outdated.

Roma

Use 'Roma' when referring to the ethnic group native to Europe, which is the most accepted and respectful term today.

The Roma people have a vibrant cultural heritage.
Many Roma communities live in Eastern Europe.

Examples of usage

The Romany people have a rich cultural heritage.
Many Romany families still travel in caravans.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

music

Romany music is characterized by its lively rhythms, passionate melodies, and virtuosic performances. It has influenced many genres of music around the world.

Synonyms

Gypsy music, Roma music.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
Romany	Romany can also be used to describe things related to the Romani culture or heritage in various contexts, including formal and informal. She purchased a beautiful piece of Romany jewelry The play depicts Romany family life in the early 20th century
Gypsy music	Gypsy music is used in informal and casual contexts to describe traditional or contemporary music associated with the Romani people, although it can sometimes have negative connotations due to stereotypes. The festival featured an incredible performance of Gypsy music Gypsy music has a lively and passionate style that is very appealing
Roma music	Roma music is preferred in respectful and inclusive contexts when referring to music created by the Roma people, as it avoids the negative connotations associated with 'Gypsy'. Romani artists are gaining recognition for their contributions to Roma music The concert showcased the beauty of traditional Roma music

Word

Description / Examples

Romany

Romany can also be used to describe things related to the Romani culture or heritage in various contexts, including formal and informal.

She purchased a beautiful piece of Romany jewelry
The play depicts Romany family life in the early 20th century

Gypsy music

Gypsy music is used in informal and casual contexts to describe traditional or contemporary music associated with the Romani people, although it can sometimes have negative connotations due to stereotypes.

The festival featured an incredible performance of Gypsy music
Gypsy music has a lively and passionate style that is very appealing

Roma music

Roma music is preferred in respectful and inclusive contexts when referring to music created by the Roma people, as it avoids the negative connotations associated with 'Gypsy'.

Romani artists are gaining recognition for their contributions to Roma music
The concert showcased the beauty of traditional Roma music

Examples of usage

The Romany music festival was a celebration of talent and tradition.
She danced to the lively beats of Romany music.

Translations

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

Origin of 'Romany'

The term 'Romany' is derived from the Romani people, who are believed to have originated in South Asia and migrated to Europe over a thousand years ago. They have faced discrimination and persecution throughout history, but have also made significant cultural contributions, particularly in the fields of music and dance.