goyim

Goyim is a term from Hebrew and Yiddish that literally means "nations" or "peoples." In the Hebrew Bible, the singular form goy referred to nations other than Israel; in Rabbinic literature it came to denote non-Jewish peoples in general. In modern Hebrew and Yiddish, goy (singular) and goyim (plural) are commonly used to refer to non-Jews, i.e., Gentiles. In English-language contexts, goy is often translated as "gentile," and goyim as "gentiles." The shift from a neutral ethnographic term to a religiously marked group has produced a range of uses and tones.

Usage and tone: Within Jewish communities, the terms are typically descriptive rather than theological, distinguishing Jews from non-Jews. Outside those communities, goy or goyim can be neutral in scholarly or historical writing but frequently carries pejorative or insular connotations in casual or hostile speech. Because of potential offensiveness, many readers and writers prefer neutral phrasing such as "non-Jewish people" or "Gentiles," depending on context.

Historical and cultural notes: The term has appeared in various historical and cultural texts and, in some contexts, has been appropriated by antisemitic rhetoric. Contemporary discussions emphasize context, intent, and sensitivity, recognizing that the term can be perceived as exclusionary or disrespectful when used to demean or stereotype others. In scholarly or interfaith settings, goyim is often treated with care, and precise language is encouraged to avoid broad generalizations.