hoi polloi

American  

[hoi puh-loi] / ˈhɔɪ pəˈlɔɪ /

plural noun

1. Often the hoi polloi the common people; the masses.

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hoi polloi British  

/ ˌhɔɪ pəˈlɔɪ /

plural noun

1. derogatory the masses; common people

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hoi polloi Cultural  

1. The masses, the ordinary folk; the phrase is often used in a derogatory way to refer to a popular preference or incorrect opinion: “The hoi polloi may think that Fitzgerald is a great director, but those who know about film realize that his work is commercial and derivative.” From Greek, meaning “the many.”

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Etymology

Origin of hoi polloi

First recorded in 1835–40; written in Greek letters in 1668 ; from Greek hoi polloí “the many”

Example Sentences

Its bar was a favorite spot not to be recognized by the hoi polloi, and its terrace was popular for weddings.

From Los Angeles Times

Known for only wearing metallic animal masks and formal attire, the VIPs are the filthy rich who pay to watch and bet on the desperate hoi polloi who compete in the Squid Game.

From Salon

Here, Frasier indulges in an uncharacteristic beer: “Sitting here with a cold brew in my hand, I feel amalgamated with the hoi polloi,” he says.

From Los Angeles Times

The store announced its opening with good news for the hot dog hoi polloi: 50 cent hot dogs, compared with Papaya King’s 75.

From New York Times

But the difference between championship-caliber teams such as Milwaukee and the league’s hoi polloi is knowing how to turn an inch into a mile.

From Washington Post