noun

das Gesindel, none

rabble · scum

eine Gruppe von Menschen, die als schlecht, gemein oder ohne Anstand gesehen wird

Definition & meaning

Gesindel is a collective noun used to describe a group of people who are considered disreputable, contemptible, or socially inferior. It carries a strongly negative, derogatory, and insulting tone.

General sense: A term used to disparage a group of people, often implying they are shiftless, criminal, or morally corrupt.
Historical/Contextual sense: It is often used to describe social outcasts or groups of people regarded as a nuisance or a threat to "decent" society.

Grammar & Word origin

Gesindel is a neuter noun (das Gesindel) and is usually used in the singular, even when referring to a multitude of people. It does not have a plural form.

Word origin: The word is derived from the Middle High German gesindel, which originally referred to a retinue, followers, or household members. Over time, the connotation shifted from a neutral description of a person's entourage to a pejorative term for low-life individuals or riffraff. It is related to the word Gesinde (domestic staff or servants), but has evolved to carry a much more malicious meaning.