Mob: meaning, definitions and examples

A large and disorderly crowd, often with negative connotations. Typically implies unruly behavior and potential for violence.

• The mob surrounded the building, shouting angrily.
• A mob of fans rushed the stage.

A crowd engaged in violent or chaotic behavior, usually in the context of a riot. This phrase emphasizes the destructive and lawless nature of the group.

• The police struggled to control the riotous crowd.
• The city was overrun by a riotous crowd after the controversial decision.

A derogatory term for a disorderly crowd, suggesting they are of lower social status or unruly. Often used to imply that the crowd is unthinking or crude.

• The politician dismissed the protesters as a rabble.
• The rabble caused chaos in the streets.

A large crowd of people packed closely together, without necessarily having a negative connotation. It simply indicates a high density of individuals.

• A throng of tourists gathered at the museum entrance.
• She pushed her way through the throng to get a better view.

Use when referring to a large, unruly crowd of people, often with aggressive or chaotic behavior. Can have a negative connotation.

• The angry mob gathered outside the city hall, demanding justice.
• A mob of enthusiastic fans surrounded the celebrity, seeking autographs.

General term for enclosing someone or something on all sides. Can be neutral or positive depending on the context.

• They surrounded the suspect to prevent his escape.
• We were surrounded by beautiful countryside on our hike.

Typically used to describe a large number of people or animals moving together in an energetic and often chaotic manner. Can have a slightly negative connotation when describing people.

• Tourists swarmed the beach, eager to enjoy the sunny weather.
• Bees swarmed around the hive, busy with their tasks.

Appropriate for situations where a place or person is being surrounded aggressively, often with the intent to capture or force surrender. Strongly negative connotation, often used in military or metaphorical contexts.

• The castle was besieged by enemy forces for weeks.
• She felt besieged by reporters asking intrusive questions.