Common

Definition

Common is an adjective and a noun. As an adjective, it describes something that is found frequently, shared by multiple people or groups, or ordinary. As a noun, it can refer to shared public land or resources.

Parts of Speech

• Adjective
• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈkɑːmən/
• Respelling: KAH-muhn

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈkɒmən/
• Respelling: KOM-uhn

Etymology

The word "common" originates from the Latin "communis," meaning "shared" or "general." It was adopted into Old French as "comun," then into Middle English, evolving to mean something ordinary or widely shared.

Derivatives

• Commonality (noun)
• Commonplace (noun/adjective)
• Commoner (noun)
• Commonly (adverb)
• Commonwealth (noun)

Synonyms

• Frequent
• Usual
• Ordinary

Antonyms

• Rare
• Unusual
• Unique

Usage

The term "common" is used to describe something that occurs frequently, is accessible to or shared by all, or is considered ordinary. For example, "It’s common to see traffic during rush hour," or "They met at the village common."

Related Terms

• Frequent: Occurring or done many times.
• Public: Open to or shared by the community.
• Ordinary: With no special or distinctive features; normal.

Detailed Definitions

Adjective

• Occurring or found frequently: Refers to something that happens or appears often.
  • Example: "Sunny days are common in this region."
• Shared by, or accessible to, multiple people: Refers to resources, land, or characteristics shared by a group.
  • Example: "They used the common room for group activities."
• Ordinary, not unique or special: Describes something as normal, unremarkable, or typical.
  • Example: "She wore a common style of dress popular in the 90s."

Noun

• A piece of public land or resources shared by a community: Refers to land used collectively by a community, often for recreational or grazing purposes.
  • Example: "The town gathered at the village common for the festival."