Meaning

plural of common.

Definitions by Sense

1. plural of common
2. (usually singular in construction) A public area, especially a dining hall, at a college or university; a similar shared space elsewhere.
3. (usually singular in construction) A common (common land); especially, a central section of (usually an older) town, designated as a shared area.
4. (figuratively) The mutual good of all; the abstract concept of resources shared by more than one, for example air, water, information.
5. The common people collectively, the third estate, the people not belonging to the nobility or clergy.
6. (chiefly historical) The free burghers/bourgeoisie of a given town, taken collectively.
7. (euphemistic, obsolete) An outhouse.
8. (obsolete, UK, Oxford University) Food served at a fixed rate from the college buttery, distinguished from battels.

Example Sentences

The Renaissance festival started with the "peasants" meeting in the commons.

The commons is the green space surrounded by the village hall, the school, and the church.

The commons of New England towns are important contributors to their charm.

"The tragedy of the commons" is that none wish to make sacrifices of their or their family's interests for the common good.

We in the name of other Perſean ſtates [i.e. nobles], And commons of this mightie Monarchy, Preſent thee with the Emperiall Diadem.

At the same time, the fashion at Oxford of confining lunch to a "commons" of bread and butter and a glass of beer till the crew reaches Putney (when a little meat is allowed,) is unreasonable.

short commons

Synonyms for commons

Related Words

When Should You Use Commons?

Use commons when its meaning, tone and grammar fit the full sentence. A synonym is not always a direct replacement.

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