populace

American  

[pop-yuh-luhs] / ˈpɒp yə ləs /

noun

1. the common people of a community, nation, etc., as distinguished from the higher classes.

2. all the inhabitants of a place; population.

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populace British  

/ ˈpɒpjʊləs /

noun

1. the inhabitants of an area

2. the common people; masses

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Etymology

Origin of populace

1565–75; < French < Italian popolaccio, equivalent to popol ( o ) people + -accio pejorative suffix

Example Sentences

The city’s wealthy populace could also be among the first to pay for the service.

From Los Angeles Times

Taub is a true believer in the democratic process, and in the power of a unified populace to effect real and lasting change.

From Los Angeles Times

Top traders are generally no happier than the general populace, he says, citing data from various studies.

From The Wall Street Journal

Demographer Ira Sheskin noted recently that unlike New York City, which has lost roughly half its Jewish population since 1950, California’s Jewish populace has continued to grow, albeit more slowly in recent years.

From Los Angeles Times

She had a "deep bond with the populace", he said, and her passing would "evoke profound national mourning".

From Barron's