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

Cosmetics Soft Glam Satin Concealer The lightweight, serum-like formula features a multitude of skin care ingredients, including hyaluronic acid—the gold standard for an ultra-hydrated, skin-plumping finish. —Alyssa Morin, InStyle, 3 Jan. 2026

The gap saw the individual members fulfilling mandatory military service in South Korea and recording a multitude of solo projects. —Chris Willman, Variety, 1 Jan. 2026

The speech was Xi’s most upbeat New Year’s Eve address in recent years, coming after his government overcame a multitude of challenges to underscore China’s status as a rising global superpower. —Bloomberg, Fortune, 31 Dec. 2025

The group of Trojans that took the field Tuesday night was missing a multitude of its star players as well as a top assistant coach. —Haley Sawyer, Oc Register, 31 Dec. 2025

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