noun

gringo

GRIHNG-goh

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Gringo (noun) means a term, sometimes derogatory, used mainly in Latin America for a white foreigner, especially an American. Example: “The locals jokingly called the tourists gringos.”

noun

A term, sometimes derogatory, used mainly in Latin America for a white foreigner, especially an American.

"The locals jokingly called the tourists gringos."

How to use gringo

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishA Spanish-derived nickname for a foreigner, particularly an American, that can be neutral or mildly insulting depending on tone.

When to use it

Can carry a joking or an insulting edge depending on context — use with awareness of tone.

Easily confused with

Greek →

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C2 · Advanced serendipity Fortunate discoveries made entirely by accident.

Gen Z slang rizz Charm — the ability to attract a romantic interest.

B2 · Intermediate empathy The capacity to share another person’s feelings.

C1 · Advanced nonchalant Casually calm and relaxed; unconcerned.

Internet slang delulu Delusional — believing something against the odds.

Etymology nostalgia Greek nostos “return home” + algos “pain”.

C2 · Advanced serendipity Fortunate discoveries made entirely by accident.

Gen Z slang rizz Charm — the ability to attract a romantic interest.

B2 · Intermediate empathy The capacity to share another person’s feelings.

C1 · Advanced nonchalant Casually calm and relaxed; unconcerned.

Internet slang delulu Delusional — believing something against the odds.

Etymology nostalgia Greek nostos “return home” + algos “pain”.

Word forms

Plural: gringos, gringoes

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Fill the gap

Can you complete this real example?

The locals jokingly called the tourists _____.

Etymology

Borrowed from Spanish gringo, itself likely a twist on griego ("Greek") — historically used for anyone speaking an unintelligible foreign language, echoing the English phrase "it's all Greek to me."

Origin: Spanish

Rhymes for gringo

lingo dingo bingo Mingo Ringo Mandingo flamingo

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Frequently asked questions

What does “gringo” mean?

The word “gringo” means a term, sometimes derogatory, used mainly in Latin America for a white foreigner, especially an American. In plain terms, a Spanish-derived nickname for a foreigner, particularly an American, that can be neutral or mildly insulting depending on tone.

How do you pronounce “gringo”?

“Gringo” is pronounced GRIHNG-goh (/ˈɡɹɪŋɡoʊ/ in IPA).

How do you use “gringo” in a sentence?

Here is “gringo” used in a sentence: “The locals jokingly called the tourists gringos.”

What part of speech is “gringo”?

“Gringo” is a noun.

Where does the word “gringo” come from?

The word “gringo” comes from Spanish. Borrowed from Spanish gringo, itself likely a twist on griego ("Greek") — historically used for anyone speaking an unintelligible foreign language, echoing the English phrase "it's all Greek to me.".

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Words with Spanish origins