What does majority mean?
A majority is the greater number of people or things in a group, especially when it represents more than half of the total. The term is common in political reporting, where it can describe the party receiving the most votes, as well as in legal and administrative contexts. In general use, “the majority of” means “most of,” though the wording can sometimes imply that the larger share has a decisive or notable character. A majority should be distinguished from a plurality: a plurality is simply the largest number of votes and may be less than half. The word also appears in expressions such as “an absolute majority,” “majority rule,” and “majority decision.” Its history reflects its basic meaning: it comes ultimately from Latin maior, “greater,” through French majorite.
The greater number or more than half of a group, or the group or political party with the greatest number of supporters or seats.
"The proposal passed because it received a majority of votes."
In general contexts, “the majority of” can mean simply “most of.” In political contexts, it usually refers to more than half of the votes or seats.
Relating to or consisting of the greater number of people or things; used especially before words such as “decision,” “opinion,” and “rule.”
"The court issued a majority decision explaining the constitutional issue."
This use is chiefly attributive and is especially common in legal and political language.
The plural is used for separate larger groups or instances of a majority.
"Different majorities within the electorate supported each candidate."
The word majority literally comes from the Latin maior, meaning “greater,” so it originally referred to a “greater number” rather than a political win.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does majority come from?
The word entered English in the early 17th century from French majorite, which was derived from Latin maior, meaning “greater.” Latin maior was the comparative form of magnus, “great,” and it came to mean “greater in number.” The English word initially referred to the greater amount or number and developed its modern political and general senses over time.
Related word forms
How majority is actually used
The word is standard in formal, political, legal, and general contexts. When used for the largest group without implying more than half, “plurality” is more precise.
Easily confused with majority
A plurality is the largest number of votes or supporters, but it need not constitute more than half; a majority is more than half of the total.