collective noun

collec′tive noun′

n.

gram. use a noun, as herd, jury, or clergy, that appears singular in formal shape but denotes a group of individuals or objects

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Etymology: 1510–20 usage: Whether a collective noun will be used with a singular or plural verb typically depends on whether the word refers to the group as a unit or to its members as individuals. In American English a noun naming an organization regarded as a unit is usu. treated as singular: The corporation is holding its annual meeting. The government has taken action. In British English, such nouns are commonly treated as plurals: The corporation are holding their annual meeting. The government are in agreement. In formal speech and writing collective nouns are usu. not treated as both singular and plural in the same sentence: The enemy is fortifying its position. The enemy are bringing up their heavy artillery. When the nouns couple and pair refer to people, they are usu. treated as plurals: The newly married couple have bought a house. The pair are busy furnishing their new home. The collective nounnumber, when preceded by a, is treated as a plural: A number of solutions were suggested. When preceded by the, it is usu. treated as a singular: The number of solutions offered was astounding. Other common collective nouns are audience, class, committee, crew, crowd, family, flock, group, panel, and staff.