A multitude of people
Meaning
A very large and often overwhelming number of people.
Origin
The phrase "a multitude of people" echoes back to antiquity, its roots firmly planted in the Latin word multitudo. This term, meaning "a great number" or "crowd," was readily adopted into early English. Its true power, however, was cemented by its pervasive use in the Bible, particularly in the King James Version published in 1611. Throughout these sacred texts, "multitude" frequently describes vast gatherings, from disciples following Jesus to armies arrayed for battle, imbuing the word with a sense of overwhelming scale and historical weight. This biblical resonance ensured the phrase became a timeless and vivid descriptor for any large assembly of individuals.
Examples
- When the gates opened, a multitude of people surged forward, eager to get the best seats.
- The stadium was filled with a multitude of people, all cheering for their favorite team.