# masses

/ˈmæsəz/ (US) · /mˈæsɪz/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/masses
Updated: 2026-06-20

## Senses

### 1. large quantities

noun · CEFR B1

a very large amount or number of something.

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

- There were masses of flowers in the park during the spring festival.
- The researchers spent months sorting through masses of data collected during the initial phase of the clinical trial.

### 2. the general public

noun · CEFR B2

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

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

- The politician tried to appeal to the masses by promising lower taxes.
- The revolutionary leader sought to educate the masses, believing that a literate population was the only true defense against tyranny.

### 3. religious services

noun · CEFR B2 · Formal

more than one Catholic or religious service.

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

- The cathedral holds several masses every Sunday morning.
- During the holy week, the parish schedules additional masses to accommodate the influx of visiting pilgrims.

## Examples

- The leader tried to win the support of the masses.
- The new law was designed to improve living conditions for the masses rather than just the wealthy few.
- Political theorists often debate whether the masses are truly the drivers of historical change or if they are merely reacting to the agendas set by a small group of influential elites.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.