people

Pluralpeoples

Formspeoples, peopling, peopled

1. 1
   nouncountable or uncountable

   Plural of person. Men, women, and children, some or all of them, and sometimes other beings thought of as persons.

   There were too many people in the small waiting room.

   Some people prefer tea, while others drink only coffee.

   UsageUse a plural verb: people are (not incorrect: people is). Say one person, two people.

   Note
2. 2
   nouncollectivecountable

   A group joined together by the same country, culture, or family background.

   The Maori are a people with a long and rich history.

   Many different peoples have lived in this valley over the centuries.

   UsageFor nations, say a people and peoples.

   Similarcommunity, folk

3. 3
   nouncountable or uncountable

   Someone's family members and close relatives.

   Her mother's people all live in a small town in Ohio.

   His people have farmed this land for generations.

   UsageSay my people or my folks for your family.

   Similarfolks, kin

   Note
4. 4
   staffnouncountable or uncountable

   The people who work for someone or follow and serve a leader.

   The manager told her people to take a short break.

   I'll get my people to send you the files today.

   UsageUsed with my, your, her, etc. My people will call your people is often used as a joke about acting important.

   Similarstaff, team, employees, assistants, followers

   Note
5. 5
   nouncountable or uncountable

   Ordinary members of a community, not the rich or powerful few.

   The new law was meant to protect the people, not the powerful.

   The king lived in luxury while the people went hungry.

   UsageSay the people, as in the people want change.

   Similarpopulace, commoners, citizenry

   Oppositeelite, aristocracy, nobility

   Note

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