The term "gringo" is often used in Latin America to refer to a foreigner, particularly someone from the United States. It can carry neutral connotations but can also have negative implications depending on the context in which it is used. It typically describes someone who is perceived as an outsider due to their language, culture, or nationality.
The word "gringo" is believed to have originated in the early 19th century, possibly from the Spanish word "griego," which means "Greek." This association arose from the phrase "It's Greek to me," used to describe something that is difficult to understand. It has evolved to refer specifically to English-speaking foreigners, especially Americans.