: the ordinary people in a country who do not have special power or privileges
She is well-liked as a senator because she listens to the people.
the common people
US, law
—used to refer to the government of the U.S. or of a particular state in the name of a legal case
The People vs. John Doe
Examples of the people in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
Letters To The Editor, Orlando Sentinel, 1 Feb. 2025
Authorities have confirmed that two of the people killed in the small plane crash in Philadelphia on Friday, Jan. 31, were a child and her mother.
—Kimberlee Speakman, People.com, 1 Feb. 2025
But what good is medical progress if the people who need it most can’t afford it?
—Chicago Tribune, 1 Feb. 2025
Focus on your career – the people want a sequel to Spring Breakers!
—Andre Byik, USA TODAY, 31 Jan. 2025
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Noun
However, if his action is unlawful, then Congress, the courts, the news media and we the people must correct him.
—Letters To The Editor, Orlando Sentinel, 1 Feb. 2025
Authorities have confirmed that two of the people killed in the small plane crash in Philadelphia on Friday, Jan. 31, were a child and her mother.
—Kimberlee Speakman, People.com, 1 Feb. 2025
But what good is medical progress if the people who need it most can’t afford it?
—Chicago Tribune, 1 Feb. 2025
Focus on your career – the people want a sequel to Spring Breakers!
—Andre Byik, USA TODAY, 31 Jan. 2025
See all Example Sentences for the people
Dictionary Entries Near the people
Cite this Entry
“The people.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/the%20people. Accessed 8 Feb. 2025.
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