Commonalties

/kəˈmɑːnəltiz/ noun

Definition

Plural of commonalty: shared characteristics, common features, or the quality of being commonly experienced; alternatively, the common people collectively.

Etymology

From commonalty, derived from common plus -ty/-alty suffix. Used from Middle English onward with both meanings: shared traits and 'the commons' (common people).

Kelly Says

This word cleverly contains two meanings: it can mean both 'things we share' AND 'the common people'—because medieval English saw the commons as sharing their lower status! Language reflects social hierarchy.

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