the people
noun (1)Definition of the people
(Entry 1 of 2)
: the ordinary people in a country who do not have special power or privileges
She is well-liked as a senator because she listens to the people. the common people
the People
noun (2)Definition of the People (Entry 2 of 2)
US, law
—used to refer to the government of the U.S. or of a particular state in the name of a legal case The People vs. John Doe