Synonyms

popularity

American

[pop-yuh-lar-i-tee] / ˌpɒp yəˈlær ɪ ti /

noun

the quality or fact of being popular.

Synonyms:

repute, fame, fashion, vogue, acclaim
the favor of the general public or of a particular group of people.

His popularity with television audiences is unrivaled.

Synonyms:

repute, fame, fashion, vogue, acclaim

Other Word Forms

Etymology

Origin of popularity

First recorded in 1540–50, popularity is from the Latin word populāritās a courting of popular favor. See popular, -ity

Explanation

Popularity is the quality of being well-liked and having a lot of friends and admirers. Winning a student council election isn't just about popularity — you also have to have good ideas and be willing to work hard. Having popularity means that there are many people in your corner, supporting or liking you. The popularity of an internet celebrity might disappear suddenly, while the popularity of your favorite writers and artists seems to last for generations. This kind of popularity implies being adored by people who don't even know you in person (the word comes from a Latin root meaning "the people"), while your popularity among your friends is a more personal type.

Keep Reading on Vocabulary.com

Vocabulary lists containing popularity

We the People: Popul

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Academy Awards, List 5

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popul (people)

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Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Popularity on Wall Street is a double-edged sword.

From MarketWatch • Feb. 16, 2026

A gold medal, not Miss Popularity, is the goal of the Olympics, Mr. Plaschke.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 15, 2024

Popularity aside, its most striking quality, however, is the extent to which it worships at the altar of Craig David's 7 Days.

From BBC • Nov. 3, 2023