multitude

noun

mul·​ti·​tude ˈməl-tə-ˌtüd 

-ˌtyüd

1

: the state of being many

… the mind falters, confused by the multitude and yet the harmony of the detail …

—Theodore Dreiser

2

: a great number : host entry 4

a multitude of choices

a multitude of complaints

3

: a great number of people

A multitude gathered to hear the governor's speech.

4

: populace, public

a candidate trying to appeal to the multitude

Synonyms of multitude

• throng
• crowd
• flock
• swarm
• horde

Examples of multitude in a Sentence

a candidate trying to appeal to the multitude

awed by the multitude of stars in the night sky

Recent Examples on the Web

The show, will bring together work by over forty artists working across a multitude of different disciplines, including textiles, installation, video, painting and sculpture. — News Desk, Artforum, 27 July 2026

The 3,934-acre park boasts a multitude of trails for hiking and biking. — Zuri Primos july 26, Kansas City Star, 26 July 2026

While each state had a multitude of differing opinions on topics that ranged from best politician to best burger joint, a love in my heart grew for the people of each place. — Vriti Shah, The Orlando Sentinel, 26 July 2026

But the series is careful to cast suspicions in a multitude of directions, not merely at Michael but at several people in Sarah’s orbit who only reveal themselves when backed into corners. — Aramide Tinubu, Variety, 23 July 2026

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, from Anglo-French or Latin; Anglo-French, from Latin multitudin-, multitudo, from multus much — more at meliorate

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing multitude

• cover/hide a multitude of sins
• the multitude

Rhymes for multitude

• altitude
• amplitude
• aptitude
• attitude
• barbecued
• certitude
• desuetude
• devalued
• finitude
• fortitude
• gratitude
• interlude

Kids Definition

multitude

noun

mul·​ti·​tude ˈməl-tə-ˌt(y)üd 

: a great number of things or people