general public

[ jen-er-uhl puhb-lik ]

noun

1. all or most people, especially those not part of a specified group; ordinary people as opposed to officials, experts, politicians, etc.:

   The books have been warmly received by critics and by the general public.

   This protocol can be adopted by any organization wishing to improve workplace health and safety for employees, customers, and the general public.

Word History and Origins

Origin of general public¹

First recorded in 1845–50

Example Sentences

The markets open around 4 a.m. for wholesale buyers and to the general public at 8 a.m.

From Los Angeles Times

You can make the argument that other reckless nominees, in the positions to which they’ve been nominated, present a greater risk to general public well-being.

From Slate

But it would be years until the general public learned of this deep-sea discovery.

From Los Angeles Times

“Even though amongst the general public there are mixed feelings about it, the reality is that it has produced very safe, very reliable and affordable electricity worldwide.”

From BBC

It was drawn up to be representative of the general public, both in terms of demographics and age as well as attitudes to assisted dying.

From BBC

Related Words

• association
• center
• company
• district
• nation
• neighborhood
• people
• public
• society
• state