What does "popularity" mean?

1. (being liked by many) the state of being liked or supported by a lot of people. 2. (public sentiment) the general feeling or opinion of the public.

How do you use "popularity"?

Usually uncountable; often used with the verbs 'gain', 'lose', or 'increase'. Found primarily in historical texts or formal literature to describe the mood of the masses.

popularity

US //ˌpɑpjəˈɫɛɹəti// UK //pˌɒpjʊlˈæɹɪti// pop·u·lar·i·ty

1 being liked by many (n.)
B1 Intermediate

the state of being liked or supported by a lot of people.

the condition of being widely admired, accepted, or enjoyed by the general public or a specific group.

Example

The new video game gained popularity very quickly among teenagers.

Example

The sudden surge in the candidate's popularity can be attributed to her recent policy shift regarding urban infrastructure and public transport.

Usage

Usually uncountable; often used with the verbs 'gain', 'lose', or 'increase'.
- favour
- fame
- repute
- unpopularity
- obscurity
2 public sentiment (n.)
C2 Proficiency Archaic

the general feeling or opinion of the public.

the state of public sentiment or general passion regarding a specific topic or person.

Example

In the old story, the king feared the popularity of the angry crowd.

Example

The historian noted that the popularity of the movement was driven more by desperation than by a coherent political ideology.

Usage

Found primarily in historical texts or formal literature to describe the mood of the masses.
- public opinion
- sentiment

Origin

From popular + -ity, from Latin popularitas (“an effort to please the people”).