Gentile

Gentile is an English term used to designate a person who is not Jewish. In Jewish and biblical contexts the word is often used to distinguish Jews from non-Jews, and its use appears in historical and religious discussions about identity, law, and interfaith relations. In broader discourse, Gentile can simply mean non-Jewish, though its connotations can vary with tone and context.

Etymology and usage: Gentile derives from Latin gentilis, meaning of a gens or clan. It passed into Old French as gentil and into English in the medieval period. In Italian, gentile is an adjective meaning civil, polite, or noble. In English, gentile as a common noun is rare and often capitalized as Gentile when referring to a surname or, in some historical texts, to non-Jews. The term is related to other words such as goy, a Yiddish term for nations or peoples.

In Jewish tradition and law, Gentile is used to differentiate non-Jews from Jews, informing discussions of religious obligation and interaction between communities. Rabbinic literature discusses noachide laws and other concepts that apply to non-Jews, while recognizing distinct ethical and contractual frameworks for different groups. In modern usage, Gentile is generally neutral but can be sensitive depending on context, tone, and audience.

Notable usage and names: Gentile is a common Italian surname, reflecting the Italian adjective’s sense of civility or nobility. A well-known bearer is Giovanni Gentile (1881–1944), an Italian philosopher and a prominent theorist linked with Fascist ideology. The surname remains widespread in Italy and among Italian communities worldwide.