Definition

A term used to describe a group of people who are considered to be of low social status or undesirable behavior, often referred to as the common people or the masses.

Example

The politician dismissed the concerns of the canaille, believing they were not worth his time.

Conversation

Have you seen how some people treat the canaille in our city?

Yeah, it's really unfair; everyone deserves respect, regardless of their background.

Exactly! It's like they forget that we all started from the same place.

Right? We should be more compassionate towards the canaille around us.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Canaille comes from Old French 'canaille' (meaning rabble or common people), which is derived from 'canal' (meaning dog). The term originally referred to a pack of dogs, and over time it evolved to describe a group of people considered lowly or of inferior status.

Memory Tip

Think of the word 'canal' which relates to dogs, and remember that 'canaille' refers to a group of people seen as lowly or common, much like a pack of dogs.

Visually Confused Words