Mob facts for kids

The word mob can mean a few different things, usually related to a group of people. It comes from an old Latin phrase, mobile vulgus, which means "fickle commoners" or "the changeable crowd."

What is a Mob?

A mob often refers to a large, sometimes noisy, group of people. Think of a big crowd at a concert or a busy street. When people use the word "mob" in this way, it usually means a large gathering that might be a bit disorganized or emotional.

Mobs in History

Sometimes, in history, the word "mob" was used to describe a large group of people who were protesting or acting together in a strong way. These groups could be powerful because there were so many people involved.

Mobbing: A Type of Bullying

Another meaning of "mob" is related to a type of bullying called mobbing. This happens when a group of people, like classmates or co-workers, gang up on one person. They might tease, exclude, or spread rumors about that person. This kind of behavior is not kind and can be very hurtful.

How Mobbing Works

• It involves more than one person picking on someone.
• It can happen in schools, online, or in other groups.
• The goal is often to make the target feel bad or left out.

Organized Groups

In some older stories or movies, "mob" can also be used to talk about a secret group of people who work together, sometimes to do things that are against the law. This meaning is often used in American English to describe groups that are very organized and powerful, but it's important to remember that these are fictional or historical references and not something you would usually encounter in everyday life.

Understanding Different Meanings

It's important to look at how the word "mob" is used in a sentence to understand what it means. It can describe a simple crowd, a harmful bullying situation, or even a historical term for certain organized groups. Always think about the context to figure out the right meaning.