rank and files

noun

plural of rank and file
as in masses
the body of the community as contrasted with the elite the chosen few might have the opportunity for a trip in the space shuttle, but it will be a while before the rank and file are taking space trips

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Example Sentences

Recent Examples of Synonyms for rank and files
  1. publics
  2. crowds
  3. people
Noun
  • Energy buyers in Asia and Europe, the US military, Arab publics, global investors, universities, football, and mediation partners from Tehran to the Taliban all came to want Qatar functioning, each for their own reason.
    — Güney Yıldız, Forbes.com, 18 July 2026
  • Museums are sincerely trying to connect with their publics (even if these are often cast as consumers), and the horizon for that experiment is almost limitless.
    — Katy Siegel, Artforum, 2 June 2026
Definition of publics
Noun
  • The second attempt in March 2021 succeeded, with images showing crowds that had gathered to witness the launch.
    — Sylvie Zhuang, CNN Money, 11 Aug. 2026
  • From electric live performances and iconic stage sets to crowds dancing under fog, these images highlight the vibrant spirit of the weekend.
    — Ray Chavez, Mercury News, 11 Aug. 2026
Definition of crowds
Noun
  • Another 13 people were wounded on downtown Sacramento’s K Street and 10th Street, in what became the deadliest mass shooting in the city’s history.
    — Darrell Smith, Sacbee.com, 19 June 2026
  • Organizers say more than 125,000 people are expected throughout the event, bringing in millions of dollars for the local economy.
    — Ryan Hughes, CBS News, 19 June 2026
Definition of people
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Browse Nearby Words

rank and file
rank and files
ranked
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Cite this Entry

“Rank and files.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/rank%20and%20files. Accessed 14 Aug. 2026.

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