gypo: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
Very Low / Archaic / Regional / OffensiveHighly Informal, Offensive, Slang
Quick answer
What does “gypo” mean?
A derogatory, offensive term for a Gypsy or Romani person. Also used regionally to refer to a dishonest or shifty person.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A derogatory, offensive term for a Gypsy or Romani person. Also used regionally to refer to a dishonest or shifty person.
In some specific dialects (e.g., in UK dialects like East Anglian), it can refer to a type of itinerant laborer, often in construction or agriculture, working for low wages. This secondary meaning can be used neutrally or pejoratively.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
In the UK, the word has two primary contexts: the ethnic slur and a regional dialect term for an itinerant worker (e.g., 'gypo driver'). In the US, its primary and almost exclusive use is as an offensive ethnic slur, with the regional laborer meaning being largely unknown.
Connotations
Both dialects: Strongly offensive when referring to Romani people. UK only: Can have class-based negative connotations (unskilled, unreliable) in its laborer sense.
Frequency
Extremely rare in mainstream writing due to its offensive nature. The regional UK laborer sense might be heard in specific local speech but is not widespread.
Grammar
How to Use “gypo” in a Sentence
be + a + gypowork like + a + gypohire + a + gypoVocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “gypo” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- [Very rare as a verb. Hypothetical: 'He tried to gypo his way out of the contract.']
American English
- [Not used as a verb in AmE.]
adverb
British English
- [Not standard.]
American English
- [Not used.]
adjective
British English
- That's a right gypo operation, no proper safety gear.
- They used a gypo crew to undercut the local builders.
American English
- [Used only attributively as part of the slur, e.g., 'gypo fortune-teller' (highly offensive).]
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Never used in formal business contexts. In informal, negative talk about unreliable subcontractors (UK regional).
Academic
Only used in academic contexts when discussing pejorative language, racism, or sociolects.
Everyday
Avoided entirely in polite conversation due to its status as a slur. Its regional laborer use is confined to specific informal groups.
Technical
No technical usage.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “gypo”
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “gypo”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “gypo”
- Using it unaware of its offensive power as a slur.
- Assuming the regional laborer meaning is acceptable in general English.
- Spelling it as 'gypoo' or 'gyppo'.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No. Its primary meaning is a deeply offensive slur against Romani people. Any other regional usage is also informal and often pejorative. It should be avoided.
In some UK dialects, particularly among drivers and builders, it can refer to an independent, non-union, or small-scale operator, often implying they cut corners or work for low rates. This usage is still informal and can be derogatory.
It is a shortening and alteration of 'Gypsy', itself a corruption of 'Egyptian', based on the mistaken historical belief that the Romani people originated from Egypt. The term is thus etymologically and socially problematic.
For the ethnic group, use 'Romani' or 'Roma'. For the type of worker, use neutral terms like 'independent contractor', 'self-employed laborer', 'subcontractor', or 'itinerant worker', depending on the precise context.
A derogatory, offensive term for a Gypsy or Romani person. Also used regionally to refer to a dishonest or shifty person.
Gypo is usually highly informal, offensive, slang in register.
Gypo: in British English it is pronounced /ˈdʒɪpəʊ/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈdʒɪpoʊ/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “[Not commonly found in idioms due to offensive/regional nature]”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
WARNING: This word is a harmful slur. A better mnemonic is to remember to AVOID it. Think: 'Give Your Prejudices Over' - GYPO is a word to leave behind.
Conceptual Metaphor
CHEAP/LOW QUALITY IS DISHONEST (in its laborer sense).
Practice
Quiz
What is the most important thing to know about the word 'gypo'?