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Rabble Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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rabble

[ˈræbəl ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

group of people

A rabble refers to a disorderly crowd of people, often characterized by a lack of organization or purpose. It can also be used in a derogatory manner to describe a group of people perceived as unruly or lower class.

Synonyms

crowd, masses, mob.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
rabble

This word often has a negative connotation and is used to describe a large, disorderly group of people, usually of a lower social status, who are seen as noisy and unruly.

  • The rabble gathered outside the palace, demanding justice.
  • He addressed the rabble with a fiery speech, inciting them further.
mob

This word also has a negative connotation and is used to describe a large, disorderly group of people who are often angry, violent, or lawless.

  • A mob of protesters clashed with the police.
  • The angry mob stormed the gates, demanding the release of the prisoners.
crowd

Crowd is a neutral term used to describe a large number of people gathered together, whether organized or spontaneous.

  • The crowd cheered as the band took the stage.
  • A crowd gathered in the square for the festival.
masses

Masses is generally used to describe large groups of people, typically referring to the general population. It can be used in both neutral and positive contexts, especially when emphasizing numerical strength or collective effort.

  • The politician aimed to appeal to the masses with his populist rhetoric.
  • The charitable organization aims to provide healthcare to the masses.

Examples of usage

  • The rabble outside the stadium grew louder as the game approached.
  • The politician dismissed the protestors as a mere rabble without a coherent message.
Context #2 | Noun

lower class

In historical contexts, rabble can refer to the lower class or common people, often in a disparaging way. It implies a lack of refinement or sophistication.

Synonyms

commoners, plebeians, proletariat.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
rabble

This word is used to describe a disorderly crowd or mob, often with a negative connotation, suggesting a lack of sophistication or control.

  • The politician dismissed the protesters as a mere rabble.
  • The rabble gathered outside the palace, chanting and demanding change.
commoners

This term refers to ordinary people, especially as distinct from those with aristocratic titles or statuses. Often used in historical or formal contexts.

  • In medieval times, commoners had little power and few rights.
  • The king issued a decree that affected both nobles and commoners alike.
plebeians

Typically used in a historical Roman context to describe the lower social classes, but can also refer more generally to low-status individuals. Has a formal tone.

  • In ancient Rome, plebeians often struggled to gain political power.
  • The senator was beloved by both patricians and plebeians.
proletariat

This term is often used in a socio-economic context, particularly Marxist theory, to describe the working class who lack ownership of means of production.

  • The revolution aimed to overthrow the ruling class and empower the proletariat.
  • Literature from this period often explores the struggles of the proletariat.

Examples of usage

  • The aristocrats looked down upon the rabble, considering them uncouth and uncivilized.
  • The rabble struggled to make ends meet in the harsh economic conditions.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Historical Context

  • During the French Revolution, 'rabble' referred to the common people taking to the streets demanding change, showing the power of collective voice.
  • In 1900s America, the term was often used in politics to describe unsophisticated voters, reflecting class tensions of the era.
  • The industrial revolution saw an increase in urban crowds, where the 'rabble' was viewed both as a threat and source of social change.

Literature

  • In Charles Dickens' works, the 'rabble' often symbolizes the poor and the struggles of the lower class against social injustice.
  • Shakespeare frequently used the concept of 'rabble' to emphasize the volatility and unpredictable nature of mob mentality in plays like 'Julius Caesar'.
  • Modern novels and films often depict 'rabble' as driving forces in key plot points, highlighting the tension between authority and the people's will.

Psychology

  • Crowd psychology studies show that individuals in a 'rabble' can lose their personal responsibility, often leading to behavior they wouldn’t engage in alone.
  • The 'mob mentality' helps explain how individuals can be swept away in group actions, leading to both positive social change or negative outcomes.
  • Psychologists suggest that emotions run high in crowds, which can amplify feelings of anger or joy, affecting group outcomes.

Pop Culture

  • Movies often portray 'rabble' as either heroes or villains, emphasizing the dichotomy of chaotic crowds having the power to effect change.
  • In music and protest songs, references to 'rabble' call for unity among the common people against oppression or injustice.
  • Social media trends can create a 'rabble' effect, where large groups voice opinions rapidly, sometimes leading to significant societal discussions.

Origin of 'rabble'

Main points about word origin

  • The term 'rabble' comes from the Middle English word 'rabble', which means a noisy crowd or a disordered group.
  • Originally from the Old French word 'rabal', meaning 'to roar' or 'to make noise', emphasizing the chaotic nature of such groups.
  • Despite its negative connotation, the word reflects a historic view that celebrates common people's voices in protests.

The word 'rabble' originated from Middle English 'rabble' or 'rabel,' which meant a pack of animals or a disorderly crowd. It has been used since the 15th century to refer to a tumultuous group of people, often with negative connotations. Over time, it evolved to encompass the idea of a lower class or unruly assembly.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #18,654, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.