Pikey vs. Gypsy — What's the Difference?
By Tayyaba Rehman — Updated on November 2, 2023
"Pikey" is a derogatory term for a traveler or vagrant, often of Irish or Romani heritage, while "Gypsy" refers to the ethnic Romani people, traditionally itinerant.
Difference Between Pikey and Gypsy
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Key Differences
"Pikey" is a slang term in the UK, often used pejoratively to describe people who are perceived as lower-class and nomadic, historically associated with the Irish Traveller community. It carries a strong negative connotation and is considered offensive by many. "Gypsy," on the other hand, is a term that refers to the Romani people, an ethnic group with origins in Northern India and a history of migration throughout Europe.
Both "Pikey" and "Gypsy" have been associated with itinerant lifestyles. However, "Pikey" has become a term of abuse, often indiscriminately aimed at anyone living a transient lifestyle, irrespective of ethnicity, whereas "Gypsy" specifically refers to the Romani people, who have a distinct language and culture. It's important to note that while some Romani people may self-identify as Gypsies, the term can be seen as derogatory by others.
The use of "Pikey" in contemporary language is generally discouraged due to its derogatory nature. It is seen as a form of hate speech in the UK and could be legally actionable. The word "Gypsy" is also controversial; although it is used officially, such as in the term "Gypsy/Traveller," it can be perceived as offensive and many prefer the term "Romani" or "Roma" to describe the ethnic group.
In literature and media, the term "Pikey" has been used to depict characters as untrustworthy or criminally inclined, perpetuating stereotypes. Conversely, "Gypsy" has been romanticized and stereotyped in various ways, often either as free-spirited or as mysterious outsiders. Both terms carry historical baggage that influences their contemporary understanding and usage.
Legislation such as the UK Equality Act 2010 offers protection against discrimination for various groups, including Romani people, but does not specifically mention "Pikeys" due to its status as a slur rather than an identity. It's essential in respectful discourse to use terms that communities choose for themselves, and many from these communities prefer "Traveller" or "Romani/Roma" over "Pikey" or "Gypsy."
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Comparison Chart
Connotation
Derogatory and offensive.
Can be neutral but often used pejoratively.
Ethnic Association
Loosely associated with Irish Travellers, no distinct ethnicity.
Specifically refers to the Romani people, an ethnic group.
Usage in Society
Considered hate speech, especially in the UK.
Used both officially and socially, but can be contentious.
Cultural Representation
Often portrayed negatively in media and culture.
Romanticized or stereotyped in culture, both positively and negatively.
Acceptability
Generally unacceptable and can lead to legal consequences.
Acceptability varies; many prefer "Romani" or "Roma."
Compare with Definitions
Pikey
A derogatory UK term for a traveler.
He was unfairly labeled a pikey just because of his caravan.
Gypsy
A member of the Romani people.
She is proud of her Gypsy heritage.
Pikey
Used to describe something cheap or tawdry.
They sold what some considered pikey goods.
Gypsy
Historically, a term used to describe traveling entertainers.
The Gypsy violinist captivated the audience.
Pikey
A pejorative for people living on the margins of society.
He dismissed them as pikeys without knowing their story.
Gypsy
Free-spirited or unconventional.
Her Gypsy soul wouldn't let her stay in one place for too long.
Pikey
An offensive term for someone who moves frequently.
The new family was shunned as pikeys.
Gypsy
A term for an itinerant person, sometimes used affectionately.
He played the guitar like an old-time Gypsy.
Pikey
Pikey (; also spelled pikie, pykie) is a slang term, which is pejorative and considered by many to be a slur. It is used mainly in the UK to refer to people who are of the Traveller community, an ethnic group found in Great Britain and Ireland.
Gypsy
See Romani.
Pikey
An itinerant person, especially one of Romani or Irish Traveller heritage.
Gypsy
The Romani language.
Pikey
Relating to the stereotypical lifestyle of a transient person.
That pikey way of life is not for everyone.
Gypsy
A member of any of various traditionally itinerant groups unrelated to the Romani.
Pikey
(informal) A pike (fish).
Gypsy
A part-time or temporary member of a college faculty.
Pikey
A working-class (often underclass) person with negative connotations of benefit fraud, theft and living on rundown estates.
Gypsy
A member of the chorus line in a theater production.
Pikey
Associated with or filled with pike (fish).
Gypsy
Alternative form of Gypsy: a member of the Romani people.
Pikey
Associated with members of the above-mentioned underclass.
Gypsy
(colloquial) An itinerant person or any person, not necessarily Romani; a tinker, a traveller or a carny.
Pikey
To steal.
Gypsy
A move in contra dancing in which two dancers walk in a circle around each other while maintaining eye contact (but not touching as in a swing). whole gyp, half gyp, and gypsy meltdown, in which this step precedes a swing.}}
Gypsy
(theater) A member of a Broadway musical chorus line.
Gypsy
(dated) A person with a dark complexion.
Gypsy
(dated) A sly, roguish woman.
Gypsy
Alternative form of Gypsy: of or belonging to the Romani people.
Gypsy
(offensive) Of or having the qualities of an itinerant person or group with qualities traditionally ascribed to Romani people; making a living from dishonest practices or theft etc.
Gypsy
(intransitive) To roam around the country like a gypsy.
Gypsy
To perform the gypsy step in contra dancing.
Gypsy
One of a vagabond race, whose tribes, coming originally from India, entered Europe in the 14th or 15th century, and are now scattered over Turkey, Russia, Hungary, Spain, England, etc., living by theft, fortune telling, horsejockeying, tinkering, etc. Cf. Bohemian, Romany.
Like a right gypsy, hath, at fast and loose,Beguiled me to the very heart of loss.
Gypsy
The language used by the gypsies.
Gypsy
A dark-complexioned person.
Gypsy
A cunning or crafty person.
Gypsy
Pertaining to, or suitable for, gypsies.
Gypsy
To play the gypsy; to picnic in the woods.
Gypsy
A member of a nomadic people originating in northern India and now living on all continents
Gypsy
The Indic language of the Gypsies
Gypsy
Nomadic or wandering, often romanticized.
They led a Gypsy lifestyle, traveling in their van.
Common Curiosities
Can 'Pikey' ever be used in a positive context?
Given its strong derogatory connotations, "Pikey" is not used positively.
Why is 'Pikey' considered hate speech?
"Pikey" is hate speech due to its history of being used to demean and marginalize certain groups.
Are 'Pikey' and 'Gypsy' synonymous?
No, they are not synonymous and refer to different groups and connotations.
What should I use instead of 'Pikey'?
Avoid using "Pikey" and instead use "Irish Traveller" or simply "Traveller" when appropriate.
Why is 'Gypsy' controversial?
"Gypsy" is controversial because it has been used pejoratively and is based on an incorrect origin story.
Are there any positive portrayals of 'Gypsies' in media?
There are both positive and negative portrayals, but even positive stereotypes can be harmful.
Is 'Pikey' a racial slur?
Yes, "Pikey" is considered a racial slur and highly offensive.
Is 'Gypsy' a legally recognized ethnic group?
Yes, "Gypsy" refers to the Romani people, who are recognized as an ethnic group in many countries.
What is the origin of 'Gypsy'?
"Gypsy" originated from the mistaken belief that the Romani came from Egypt; they actually originated from Northern India.
What's a better alternative to 'Gypsy'?
"Romani" or "Roma" is preferred by many within the ethnic group.
What legal protections exist against the use of 'Pikey'?
In the UK, hate speech laws provide protection against the use of slurs like "Pikey."
Does 'Gypsy' only refer to the Romani people?
Primarily, yes, though it's sometimes incorrectly applied to other itinerant groups.
Can 'Gypsy' be used to describe a lifestyle?
While "Gypsy" is sometimes used to romanticize a nomadic lifestyle, this use can perpetuate stereotypes and should be used with caution.
Is 'Pikey' an official term for any ethnic group?
No, "Pikey" is not an official term and is considered derogatory.
What should one do if they've used 'Pikey' or 'Gypsy' offensively?
It's important to apologize, educate oneself, and use more respectful terminology in the future.
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Written by
Tayyaba RehmanTayyaba Rehman is a distinguished writer, currently serving as a primary contributor to askdifference.com. As a researcher in semantics and etymology, Tayyaba's passion for the complexity of languages and their distinctions has found a perfect home on the platform. Tayyaba delves into the intricacies of language, distinguishing between commonly confused words and phrases, thereby providing clarity for readers worldwide.
