From Microsoft Encarta: Roma, commonly known as Gypsies, a traditionally nomadic people found throughout the world. While the term gypsy is often attached to anyone leading a nomadic life, the Roma share a common biological, cultural, and linguistic heritage that sets them apart as a genuine ethnic group. Microsoft Encarta Encyclopedia 2002. 1993-2001 Microsoft Corporation. All rights reserved. I sure don't see any negative connotations here, and have never heard any other than very old, stereotypical, old school stuff. Perhaps the word "gypsy" carries the same narrow-minded stigma that the word "pagan" does for some, which is more than likely due to cultural or societal brainwashing, etc. Who knows?