Definition

Noun: - The common people generally; the masses: This term refers to the ordinary people in a society, often considered as a collective group distinct from the elite, wealthy, or powerful classes. It can carry a slightly derogatory or dismissive connotation, implying a lack of sophistication or refinement.

Usage

This noun phrase is used as a collective term to refer to the general populace. It is typically used in a sociological or rhetorical context, and its tone can range from neutral to pejorative. - It functions as a singular noun phrase but refers to a plural group (e.g., The great unwashed is...). - It is often preceded by the definite article "the."

Examples

• The politician claimed his policies would finally give a voice to the great unwashed.
• The elite viewed the popular festival with disdain, considering it mere entertainment for the great unwashed.
• He wrote a column that pretended to sympathize with the great unwashed, but his tone was always condescending.

Advanced Usage / Nuances

• The phrase often implies a perspective from an outsider (e.g., an intellectual, aristocrat, or critic) looking down upon or generalizing about the majority.
• It can be used ironically or self-deprecatingly by members of the general public.
• Historical/Literary Context: The term evokes a 19th-century sensibility, often associated with descriptions of the urban poor or working classes during the Industrial Revolution.

Variants and Related Words

• The masses (n.): A more neutral term for the general population.
• The hoi polloi (n.): A term borrowed from Greek, also meaning the common people, often used derogatorily.
• The plebeians (n.): Originally referring to the common people of ancient Rome, now used similarly to denote the general populace.
• The common herd (n.): A derogatory term suggesting the masses are like animals.

Synonyms

• The common people
• The populace
• The multitude
• The rank and file

Antonyms

• The elite
• The aristocracy
• The upper crust
• The privileged few

Idioms / Fixed Phrases

• To appeal to the great unwashed: To try to gain popularity or support among the general public.
  • The new TV network's programming was designed to appeal to the great unwashed.
• The voice of the great unwashed: The opinions or demands of the common people.
  • The protest was seen as the voice of the great unwashed, finally being heard.

Noun

1. the common people generally
   • separate the warriors from the mass
   • power to the people