popularity

Meanings

1. 1
   noun

   the quality of being widely admired or accepted or sought after

   Their charm soon won them affection and popularity.

2. 2
   noun

   The quality or state of being popular; especially, the state of being widely liked or in favor with the people at large.

   This destination has increased in popularity after great reviews in the guide books.

3. 3
   noun

   The quality or state of being adapted or pleasing to common, poor, or vulgar people

   So this Gallant, labouring to avoid Popularity, falls into a habit of Affectation, Ten thousand times hatefuller than the former.

4. 4
   noun

   Something which obtains, or is intended to obtain, the favor of the vulgar; claptrap.

   Popularities, and circumstances which […] sway the ordinary judgment.

5. 5
   noun

   The act of courting the favour of the people.

   Cato (the younger) charged Muraena, and indicted him in open court for popularity and ambition.

6. 6
   noun

   Public sentiment; general passion.

   A little time be allowed for the madness of popularity to cease.

Etymology

From popular + -ity, from Latin popularitas (“an effort to please the people”).