Definition

A formal count of the number of people in a specific area, often including information about their age, gender, and other characteristics.

Example

The government conducts a census every ten years to gather important demographic data.

Conversation

Did you hear about the upcoming census?

Yeah, I read they’re going to ask a lot of questions this time.

I wonder how they collect all that data for the census.

It must be a huge task, but it’s important for planning services.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Definition

To conduct a survey to count and gather information about a population, typically used in reference to people or things.

Example

The government will census the entire population next year to update its records.

Tense Forms

Conversation

Did you hear they are going to census the local wildlife this year?

Really? That sounds interesting! What are they looking for?

I think they want to track the population of different species.

Root Explanation

Census → It is derived from the Latin word "censere" (meaning to assess or to estimate). The term originally referred to the official count or assessment of a population, particularly for taxation and military service purposes.

Memory Tip

Think of the Latin word for 'assess' — that's what a census does; it counts and estimates the population.

Visually Confused Words