| census | An enumeration of a population, originally for taxation and military purposes, now with many other purposes; basic facts about all persons-age, sex, occupation, nature of residence, etc.- are recorded at the census, which often also includes some information about health status. Origin: L., fr. Censeo, to count (05 Mar 2000) |
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| censuses | Enumerations of populations usually recording identities of all persons in every place of residence with age or date of birth, sex, occupation, national origin, language, marital status, income, relation to head of household, information on the dwelling place, education, literacy, health-related data (e.g., permanent disability), etc. The census or "numbering of the people" is mentioned several times in the old testament. Among the romans, censuses were intimately connected with the enumeration of troops before and after battle and probably a military necessity. (12 Dec 1998) |