plebs

[plebz]

noun

(used with a plural verb)

1. (in ancient Rome) the common people, as contrasted with the patricians and later with the senatorial nobility or the equestrian order.

2. the common people; the populace.

plebs

/ plɛbz /

noun

1. (functioning as plural) the common people; the masses

2. (functioning as singular or plural) common people of ancient Rome Compare patrician

Word History and Origins

Origin of plebs¹

First recorded in 1640–50, plebs is from the Latin word plēbs, plēbēs

Word History and Origins

Origin of plebs¹

C17: from Latin: the common people of ancient Rome

Related Words

• proletariat 
• working class