VocabDictionary

ordinary people

/ˈɔːrdəneri ˈpiːpəl/beginner Level

English Meaning & Definitions

1.noun

The general public or individuals who do not possess special status, wealth, or fame; the common citizenry.

Example Sentences:
  • The politician claimed to understand the struggles of ordinary people.
  • It is remarkable how ordinary people can achieve extraordinary things when given the right opportunity.
Share & Learn With Friends

Share “ordinary people” with study groups, classmates, or on your social channels.

English Synonyms & Near Equivalents

English Antonyms & Opposites

Comprehensive Thesaurus Breakdown

Compare formal, informal, literary synonyms and register nuances for “ordinary people”.

Thesaurus Entry
Cultural Origin & Etymology

The term combines 'ordinary,' derived from the Latin 'ordinarius' (meaning 'orderly' or 'arranged in order'), and 'people,' from the Old French 'pueple' and Latin 'populus.' Historically, it emerged to distinguish the general populace from the aristocracy, clergy, or elite classes, representing those who live typical, non-extraordinary lives.

Memory Aid & Mnemonic

Think of 'ordinary' as 'order-in-a-row'—the people who follow the standard, orderly path of life.

Frequently Asked Questions About “ordinary people

1. What is the meaning of “ordinary people” in English?

In English, ordinary people (noun) is defined as: “The general public or individuals who do not possess special status, wealth, or fame; the common citizenry.”.

2. How do you use “ordinary people” in a sentence?

The politician claimed to understand the struggles of ordinary people.

3. What are English synonyms of “ordinary people”?

4. What is the etymology and word origin of “ordinary people”?

The term combines 'ordinary,' derived from the Latin 'ordinarius' (meaning 'orderly' or 'arranged in order'), and 'people,' from the Old French 'pueple' and Latin 'populus.' Historically, it emerged to distinguish the general populace from the aristocracy, clergy, or elite classes, representing those who live typical, non-extraordinary lives.