Majority

Definition

Majority is a noun that refers to the greater number or part of something. It is often used to indicate more than half of a total or the larger group in a decision-making process. In a legal context, it can also refer to the age at which a person is legally considered an adult.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /məˈdʒɔːr.ə.ti/
• Respelling: muh-JOR-uh-tee

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /məˈdʒɒr.ɪ.ti/
• Respelling: muh-JOR-i-tee

Etymology

The word "majority" originates from the Latin "majoritas," which is derived from "major," meaning "greater" or "larger." It entered Middle French as "majorité" before being adopted into English in the late 14th century, initially meaning "superiority or greater number."

Derivatives

• Major (adjective/noun)
• Majoritarian (noun/adjective)
• Majorly (adverb)
• Majoritism (noun)
• Majoritized (adjective)

Synonyms

• Plurality
• Bulk
• Greater part

Antonyms

• Minority
• Fraction
• Less

Usage

The term "majority" is commonly used in contexts such as voting, population analysis, and legal adulthood. For example, "The bill was passed by a majority vote" or "The majority of people prefer online shopping."

Related Terms

• Minority: The smaller number or part.
• Plurality: The number greater than others but not necessarily a majority.
• Consensus: General agreement within a group.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• The greater number or part of a group: Refers to more than half of a total or the larger portion.
  • Example: "A majority of voters supported the candidate."
• The age at which one is legally recognized as an adult: Refers to the threshold of adulthood, usually 18 or 21 depending on jurisdiction.
  • Example: "She reached the age of majority last year."
• A larger group in a decision-making process: Used in political or organizational contexts.
  • Example: "The ruling party holds a strong majority in parliament."