gypsy
UK[ˈdʒɪpsi]US[ˈdʒɪpsi]
n
A member of a traditionally itinerant people of South Asian origin, now found throughout the world; the Romani people.
n
(often lowercase) A person who leads an unconventional, nomadic lifestyle.
n
(often lowercase, informal) A person who moves from place to place, especially for seasonal work.
Etymology
The word 'gypsy' originated in the early 16th century as a shortening of 'Egyptian'. English speakers in the medieval period mistakenly believed the Romani people, who arrived in Britain from continental Europe, originated from Egypt. This exonym reflects a historical geographical misconception rather than linguistic composition. Over centuries, the term evolved from a specific ethnic label to also acquire broader, sometimes romanticized, meanings associated with a wandering lifestyle. Its usage is now often considered outdated or offensive when referring to the Romani people, with 'Romani' being the preferred term.
Analysis
The word 'gypsy' is a simplex form derived from a Middle English ethnic designation. It is not productively composed of separable morphemes in modern English.
Examples
The old folk song was inspired by the travels of a gypsy caravan.
He lived like a gypsy for a year, moving from one music festival to the next.
Seasonal farm work has traditionally been done by gypsy laborers.