plebeian Meaning, Definition & Usage

  1. noun one of the common people
    pleb.
  2. adjective satellite of or associated with the great masses of people
    vulgar; common; unwashed.
    • the common people in those days suffered greatly
    • behavior that branded him as common
    • his square plebeian nose
    • a vulgar and objectionable person
    • the unwashed masses

WordNet

Ple*be"ian adjective
Etymology
L. plebeius, from plebs, plebis, the common people: cf. F. plébéien.
Definitions
  1. Of or pertaining to the Roman plebs, or common people.
  2. Of or pertaining to the common people; vulgar; common; as, plebeian sports; a plebeian throng.
Ple*be"ian noun
Definitions
  1. One of the plebs, or common people of ancient Rome, in distinction from patrician.
  2. One of the common people, or lower rank of men.

Webster 1913