English Reference
noun

masses

n.
US /ˈmæsəz/ UK /mˈæsɪz/ mass·es

  1. 01 B1 Intermediate

    a very large amount or number of something.

    the plural form of mass, used to denote large, often indefinite quantities or volumes of material or objects.

    Simple

    There were masses of flowers in the park during the spring festival.

    In context

    The researchers spent months sorting through masses of data collected during the initial phase of the clinical trial.

  2. 02 B2 Upper Intermediate

    the ordinary people in a society, rather than the leaders or the rich.

    the general population or the lower social classes, often viewed as a collective political or social force.

    Simple

    The politician tried to appeal to the masses by promising lower taxes.

    In context

    The revolutionary leader sought to educate the masses, believing that a literate population was the only true defense against tyranny.

  3. 03 B2 Upper Intermediate Formal Religion

    more than one Catholic or religious service.

    the plural of Mass; the celebration of the Eucharist in the Roman Catholic Church and some other Christian traditions.

    Simple

    The cathedral holds several masses every Sunday morning.

    In context

    During the holy week, the parish schedules additional masses to accommodate the influx of visiting pilgrims.

Kusama as a cultural giant who helped bring Japanese art to the masses.

The New York Times· 27 Aug 2026

Mars and Venus, which are rocky and about the same size as Earth, have rigid surfaces that don’t break into separate masses.

The Guardian· 11 Aug 2026
This entry
Level B2 · Upper Intermediate
Frequency Frequent
Updated