multitude

multitude, great number

noun mool-tee-TOOD Rare

Origin: Latin multitudo, from multus 'many'

Also means

crowd, throng

Usage Note

Multitude is a collective noun that takes a singular verb but evokes a large, often overwhelming number. The phrase une multitude de ('a multitude of') is followed by a plural noun. It also appears in the literary expression la multitude meaning 'the masses'.

Examples

"Une multitude de touristes envahit la place."

Natural Translation

A multitude of tourists invaded the square.

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