romany

Everyday

1. A member of the Romani people (Roma), who came from India long ago and spread through Europe and the world; some travel, many live settled lives. tree →
2. Their language, Romani (Romany), which is related to languages of India. tree →
3. (adjective) of the Romani people: Romany culture, a Romany caravan. tree →

In the lessons

History and community lessons: Romani people have their own language, music and traditions, and have often been treated unfairly; many were murdered in the Holocaust. «Romani» or «Roma» is the respectful name; the older word «gypsy» can hurt. In old books, such as The Wind in the Willows, Romany life is linked with painted caravans and horses.

Examples

• Romany families have travelled Europe for hundreds of years. tree →
• The Romany language is related to Hindi. tree →
• We listened to Romany music in class. tree →
• Romani people celebrate International Roma Day on 8 April. tree →
• Her grandmother was a Romany and spoke the language. tree →
• An old Romany caravan stood in the museum. tree →

Note

Capital R: Romany, Romani, Roma. Spellings Romany and Romani are both used; «Romani» is preferred by many today. Not the same as «Romania» (a country) or «Roman».