as in crowded
formal
having a large population
a populous seaport the most populous state in the U.S.
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Example Sentences
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Recent Examples of populous
It is celebrated across faiths by more than a billion people in the world’s most populous nation and the diaspora.
—
Deepa Bharath, Twin Cities, 20 Oct. 2025
Terranea Cove Beach Rancho Palos Verdes is a coastal enclave in southern Los Angeles County that provides a slower pace than the city’s more populous hubs.
—Nicole Kliest, Vogue, 20 Oct. 2025
As the Garden State’s second most populous city (Newark is the top), Jersey City offers quick access for New York City commuters.
—Rachel Chang, Travel + Leisure, 19 Oct. 2025
The phrase, which has been used by pro-Palestinian activists, has become a sticking point between Mamdani, the Democratic nominee to lead the nation’s most populous city, and parts of its Jewish community.
—Andrew Stanton, MSNBC Newsweek, 17 Oct. 2025
See All Example Sentences for populous
Deepa Bharath, Twin Cities, 20 Oct. 2025
Terranea Cove Beach Rancho Palos Verdes is a coastal enclave in southern Los Angeles County that provides a slower pace than the city’s more populous hubs.
—Nicole Kliest, Vogue, 20 Oct. 2025
As the Garden State’s second most populous city (Newark is the top), Jersey City offers quick access for New York City commuters.
—Rachel Chang, Travel + Leisure, 19 Oct. 2025
The phrase, which has been used by pro-Palestinian activists, has become a sticking point between Mamdani, the Democratic nominee to lead the nation’s most populous city, and parts of its Jewish community.
—Andrew Stanton, MSNBC Newsweek, 17 Oct. 2025
See All Example Sentences for populous
Recent Examples of Synonyms for populous
Adjective
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Wearing a well-fitting, high-quality mask in crowded indoor spaces also can reduce the risk of contracting respiratory infections or spreading your illness to others.—
Katia Hetter,
CNN Money,
6 Nov. 2025
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With wintry weather and crowded airports, Thanksgiving travel can already be stressful.—
Juliana Kim,
NPR,
6 Nov. 2025
Adjective
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The coast along the Miraflores neighborhood is ideal for its waves and winds, as well as vibrant culture, food, and people to enjoy after your sesh.—
Ally Jaksen,
Outside,
4 Nov. 2025
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The city feels like Stars Hollow from Gilmore Girls—its energetic downtown area is filled with artisanal shops, quirky history, and a vibrant community.—
Cat Sposato,
Travel + Leisure,
4 Nov. 2025
Cite this Entry
“Populous.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/populous. Accessed 9 Nov. 2025.
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