Commons - Meaning, Definition & English Examples
Commons refers to resources or areas shared by a community, such as public land, water, or digital content. It emphasizes collective ownership and responsible use for the benefit of all.
Definition:
Land or resources belonging to or affecting the whole community; shared public spaces.
Synonyms:
common land, public property, communal areas, shared resources
Part of Speech:
noun
Antonyms:
private property, exclusives
Common Collocations:
village commons, town commons, grazing commons, public commons
Derivatives:
commoner, commonage
Usage Tips:
Use "commons" to refer to shared resources or public land, often in historical or rural contexts.
Common Phrases:
tragedy of the commons, House of Commons, common ground
Etymology:
From Old French "comun," meaning shared or general; later associated with communal land in medieval England.
Examples:
- 1. The villagers grazed their sheep on the commons.
- 2. The House of Commons debated the new law yesterday.
- 3. Protecting the commons ensures resources for future generations.
- 4. The tragedy of the commons explains overuse of shared resources.