townspeople
UK: ˈtaʊnzpiːp(ə)l | US: ˈtaʊnzpiːp(ə)l
n. the inhabitants of a town or city collectively; ordinary citizens (as opposed to officials or elites).
The word combines "town" (from Old English tūn, meaning "enclosure, settlement") with "people" (from Latin populus, via Old French peuple). The plural marker -s links the two morphemes, reflecting a collective noun structure. Historically, it distinguished urban dwellers from rural ("countryfolk") or privileged classes. The term emerged in Early Modern English as towns grew in social significance.
The townspeople gathered to protest the new tax law.
Local traditions are cherished by the townspeople.
The mayor addressed the concerns of the townspeople.
Townspeople celebrated the festival with a parade.
A rumor spread quickly among the townspeople.