Laypeople: meaning, definitions and examples
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laypeople
[ ˈleɪˌpiːpəl ]
general audience
Laypeople refer to individuals who are not professionals or experts in a specific field, particularly in relation to religion, medicine, or law. This term is often used to distinguish between those with specialized knowledge and those who are part of the general public. Laypeople contribute to discussions and practices but may lack in-depth understanding compared to trained professionals. In various contexts, laypeople may also advocate for certain causes or participate in community activities.
Synonyms
amateurs, general public, non-experts, novices
Examples of usage
- The lecture was so technical that many laypeople found it hard to follow.
- Laypeople often seek guidance from experts when making important decisions about health.
- In the debate, laypeople voiced their opinions alongside professionals.
- The organization aims to educate laypeople about environmental issues.
Etymology
The term 'laypeople' comes from the adjective 'lay', which in this context derives from the Old English word 'leiga', referring to 'non-clerical' individuals. Historically, the term was used in religious contexts to describe members of the laity as opposed to the clergy. Over time, the meaning broadened to include non-experts in various fields, emphasizing the distinction between those who are trained and those who are not. The use of 'lay' has roots in the Greek word 'laikos', meaning 'of the people', which illustrates the term's ties to the general populace. During the 19th and 20th centuries, as professionalization in many fields increased, the word gained popularity to denote those outside specialized professions, reflecting a growing public engagement in areas once dominated by experts.