What does popularity mean?
Popularity means being broadly liked, noticed, or chosen by many people. It applies to public figures, works, products, places, ideas, and trends, and it often develops through a mixture of genuine appeal, publicity, and widespread cultural attention. A person or thing may be popular in one country or community without being equally popular elsewhere, so the word can also indicate regional or demographic reach. In phrases such as “gain popularity” and “rise in popularity,” it describes an increase in public preference or recognition. The word is generally neutral, although it can occasionally imply that something is fashionable mainly because it has attracted a great deal of attention. It is distinct from popularity as a measurable audience size: a highly popular song may have millions of listeners, while a popular local service may have only a small but devoted following.
nounPopularity is the condition of being widely liked, admired, or sought after. It can also refer to the extent to which something is recognized, fashionable, or commonly used.
- The state of being widely liked, admired, or preferred by the public.
- The condition of being widely recognized, used, or in vogue.
"The band's popularity grew rapidly after its first nationwide tour."
"The novel's popularity surprised even its publisher."
"Local restaurants have benefited from the growing popularity of plant-based meals."
Rare; the word is normally used in the singular or as an uncountable noun.
"The two performers cultivated popularities in different parts of the world."
Popularity can describe both a celebrity's fame and the sudden popularity of a song, food, or internet trend.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does popularity come from?
Popularity was formed in the late eighteenth century from popular, meaning “of or relating to the people,” with the suffix -ity. Popular ultimately comes through French from Latin popularis, a derivative of populus, meaning “people.” Related English words such as populate, population, and populous ultimately reflect the same Latin root.
Related word forms
How popularity is actually used
Popularity is usually neutral, but it can sometimes suggest excessive attention or a temporary fashion rather than enduring esteem. It is often used with mass nouns such as popularity, appeal, and fame.
Easily confused with popularity
Popularity is the degree of public appeal or approval something enjoys, whereas populace means the people as a whole or a particular population.