zigeuner

Etymology
Borrowed from. See the German entry for further etymological information. .

Noun

 * 1)  A Gypsy.

Usage notes
Zigeuner is an imprecise exonym probably derived from a Greek word for “untouchable”. It is considered offensive by many Romani.

Etymology
Borrowed from. See the German entry for further etymological information.

Noun

 * 1)  Gypsy, member of the Roma
 * 2)  gypsy, person who leads a nomadic life

Usage notes
Some people and organizations consider the term offensive, sometimes putting, and  forward as neutral alternatives. Many speakers use the word zigeuner neutrally, and the term is a common word, in both informal and formal contexts, and is also often used by newspapers and state media. The perceived political incorrectness of the term zigeuner also led to equally unsuccessful renaming efforts for. Some Romani people self-identify using the term zigeuner. Compounds combing the two words are also used, i.e. and.