Emily Dickinson Lexicon

POP-U-LAR'I-TY, n. [L. popularitas.]

1. Favor of the people; the state of possessing the affection and confidence of the people in general; as, the popularity of the ministry; the popularity of a public officer or of a preacher. It is applied also to things; as, the popularity of a law or public measure; the popularity of a book or poem. The most valuable trait in a patriot's character is to forbear all improper compliances for gaining popularity. I have long since learned the little value which is to be placed in popularity, acquired by any other way than virtue; I have also learned that it is often obtained by other means. – P. Henry, Wirt's Sketches. The man whose ruling principle is duty … is never perplexed with anxious corroding calculations of interest and popularity. – J. Hawes.
2. Representation suited to vulgar or common conception; that which is intended or adapted to procure the favor of the people. [Little used.] – Bacon.