populi
Definition
- Noun (plural ):
- The people or the populace: In Latin-derived contexts, "populi" is the plural form of populus, meaning "the people" or "the general public." It is most commonly encountered in the phrase vox populi ("voice of the people"), referring to public opinion or the collective will of a community.
Usage Examples
- (The voice of the people, i.e., public opinion.)
- (The people as a political body.)
Advanced Usage
"vox populi, vox Dei": A Latin proverb meaning "the voice of the people is the voice of God," implying that popular opinion carries moral or divine authority.
- Many leaders believe that vox populi, vox Dei, and thus they follow public sentiment. (They treat public opinion as supreme.)
"populi Romani": A specific historical reference to the people of Rome.
- The senate acted in the name of the populi Romani. (In the name of the Roman people.)
Variants and Related Words
Populus (n): The singular Latin word for "people" or "nation."
- The populus of Athens was known for its democratic traditions. (The people of Athens.)
Popular (adj): Relating to or favored by the general public.
- This song is very popular among young people. (Liked by many people.)
Populace (n): The general public or the common people of a country.
- The populace gathered in the square to protest. (The ordinary people.)
Synonyms
Public: The community of people as a whole.
- The public has a right to know the truth. (The people collectively.)
Citizenry: The body of citizens of a state or country.
- The citizenry voted overwhelmingly for reform. (The voting population.)
Masses: The ordinary people, especially those without special privileges.
- The masses demanded better working conditions. (The common people.)
Related Idioms
Vox populi: The voice of the people; public opinion.
- The poll results are a clear vox populi on the matter. (A direct expression of public sentiment.)
Populi clamor: The cry or outcry of the people.
- The populi clamor forced the mayor to resign. (The public outcry.)