What does “Gringo” mean?

Literal translation

Foreigner (usually American)

Natural translation

Gringo / American / foreigner

What it really means

‘Gringo’ usually means an American or English-speaking foreigner. Tone ranges from neutral and descriptive to teasing or pejorative depending on country, context, and who's saying it.

When Spanish speakers use it

Describing a tourist, an English-speaking partner, or anyone visibly foreign — in jokes, news, music, and everyday chat across Latin America.

Examples in context

• Mi novio es gringo, pero ya habla español.
  My boyfriend is American, but he speaks Spanish now.
• Aquí vienen muchos gringos en verano.
  Lots of Americans come here in summer.
• No seas gringo, prueba el picante.
  Don't be a gringo — try the spicy food.

Regional differences

• Mexico: Most often refers specifically to people from the US. Usually neutral, sometimes teasing.
• Argentina / Uruguay: Historically also used for European immigrants (especially Italians); today often any foreigner.
• Brazil (Portuguese): ‘Gringo’ means any foreigner, not just Americans.
• Spain: Rarely used — Spaniards say ‘guiri’ for foreign tourists instead.

Natural replies you can use