plurality

English

noun
Definitions
  • (uncountable) The state of being plural.
  • (ecclesiastical) The holding of multiple benefices.
  • (countable) A state of being numerous.
  • (countable) A number or part of a whole which is greater than any other number or part, but not necessarily a majority.
  • (countable) A number of votes for a single candidate or position which is greater than the number of votes gained by any other single candidate or position voted for, but which is less than a majority of valid votes cast.
  • (countable) A margin by which a number exceeds another number, especially of votes.
  • (countable) A group of many entities: a large number.
  • (countable) A group composed of more than one entity.
  • (of spouses) Polygamy.

Etymology

Suffix from English plural inherited from Middle English pluralite derived from Old French pluralité (state of being plural, multitude) derived from Latin plūrālitās.

Origin

Latin

plūrālitās

Gloss

Timeline

Distribution of cognates by language

Geogrpahic distribution of cognates

Cognates and derived terms