tagrag and bobtail
/ˈtæɡræɡ ənd ˈbɒbˌteɪl/
NOUN
1. An ordinary or miscellaneous crowd of people
A mixed and often disreputable group of people, especially those regarded as socially inferior, unimportant, or lacking distinction.
1.1. Common people and general population
Refers collectively to ordinary people or the general public, particularly when contrasted with wealthy, influential, or socially privileged groups.
Synonyms
- commoners
- hoi polloi
- populace
- masses
- common folk
- rank and file
- ordinary people
Antonyms
Examples
- The exclusive club rarely admitted the tagrag and bobtail from the surrounding neighborhoods.
- The royal event attracted dignitaries as well as the tagrag and bobtail of the city.
Related Words
- public
- bourgeoisie
- proletariat
- working class
- middle class
- society
1.2. A disorderly or disreputable crowd
Describes a miscellaneous gathering of people considered unruly, undesirable, low-status, or socially disreputable.
Synonyms
- rabble
- riffraff
- rabblement
- ragtag and bobtail
- mob
- rabble-rousing crowd
Antonyms
- gentlefolk
- gentry
- aristocracy
- elite
- nobility
Examples
- The tavern was filled with the tagrag and bobtail of the harbor district.
- The grand reception was considered too prestigious for the tagrag and bobtail.
Related Words
- crowd
- multitude
- throng
- mob
- dregs
- unwashed