The word "census" refers to an official count or survey of a population, usually conducted to gather demographic information such as age, sex, income, and other characteristics. It helps governments and organizations understand the makeup of their population for effective planning and resource allocation.
The term "census" comes from the Latin word "census," which is derived from "censere," meaning "to assess" or "to estimate." It was originally used in Ancient Rome to refer to the periodic registration of citizens and their property.