Popular
'pɒpjʊlə
Definitions
2 meaningsLiked, admired, or supported by many people; widely accepted or in favor.
'pɒpjʊlə
Liked or admired by many people.
That song is very popular on the radio.
💡 Simply: Imagine your favorite ice cream flavor. If everyone loves it, we say it's popular! Popular means a lot of people enjoy it or think it's cool.
👶 For kids: If a lot of kids like a toy, it's popular!
More Examples
She's one of the most popular students in the class.
The game became incredibly popular after it was featured on a streaming platform.
The book was so popular it became a movie.
How It's Used
"The new restaurant quickly became popular."
"Her video went viral and was incredibly popular."
Relating to or representing the general public; of or for the people.
'pɒpjʊlə
Relating to or representing the general public.
The popular vote decided the election results.
💡 Simply: Imagine something that belongs to everyone, like a town square or public opinion. That's something 'popular' in this sense is related to everyone or the general public.
👶 For kids: Something that is made for lots of people to use, like a park!
More Examples
The government is trying to address popular concerns.
Popular culture is constantly changing.
He expressed the popular view on the matter.
How It's Used
"The politician’s speech aimed to appeal to popular sentiment."
"The popular uprising resulted in the overthrow of the monarchy."
Idioms & expressions
popular opinion
The view held by most people.
"The popular opinion is that the company should reduce its prices."
popular culture
Cultural activities, products, or trends that are widely accepted and enjoyed by the mainstream population.
"Popular culture includes things like movies, music, and fashion trends."
popular demand
Because a lot of people want something.
"Due to popular demand, the show's run has been extended."
From Latin *populāris* ('belonging to the people'), from *populus* ('people'). It entered English in the 14th century.
The term 'popular' has been used to describe things liked by the general public since the 16th century, evolving from its initial focus on relating to the people.
Memory tip
Think of a popular kid at school – everyone likes them!
Word Origin
"people"