plebeian Definition
- 1a commoner in ancient Rome
- 2a person of low social status
- 3lacking in refinement or sophistication
Using plebeian: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "plebeian" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
The plebeians were not allowed to hold public office in ancient Rome.
Example
She was born into a plebeian family and had to work hard to achieve success.
Example
His taste in music is quite plebeian, preferring pop songs over classical music.
plebeian Synonyms and Antonyms
Synonyms for plebeian
Antonyms for plebeian
- aristocrat
- patrician
- refined
- cultured
Phrases with plebeian
a form of democracy in which all citizens have equal political power, regardless of their social status
Example
Athens is often cited as an example of plebeian democracy.
Example
The use of plebeian language is frowned upon in formal settings.
Example
Reality TV shows are often associated with plebeian culture.
Origins of plebeian
from Latin 'plebeius', meaning 'of the common people'
Summary: plebeian in Brief
The term 'plebeian' [pləˈbiːən] refers to a commoner in ancient Rome, a person of low social status, or someone lacking refinement or sophistication. It can be used as both a noun and an adjective, as in 'She was born into a plebeian family.' The phrase 'plebeian democracy' denotes a form of democracy in which all citizens have equal political power, while 'plebeian language' and 'plebeian culture' refer to language and culture that are considered vulgar or unsophisticated.
