Bible Lexicons

Berry's Synonyms of the New TestamentBerry's NT Synonyms

People, Nation

λαός, ἔθνος, δῆμος, ὄχλος.

λαός is a word which is usually limited in use to the chosen people, Israel. ἔθνος in the singular is a general term for nation, applied to any nation, even to the Jews. In the plural it ordinarily denotes all mankind aside from the Jews and in contrast with them, the Gentiles. δῆμος is a people, especially organized and convened together, and exercising their rights as citizens. ὄχλος is a crowd, an unorganized multitude, especially composed of those who have not the rights and privileges of free citizens.