Population

Definition

The term "population" describes the total number of people, animals, or organisms living in a specific area or environment.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˌpɑː.pjəˈleɪ.ʃən/
• Respelling: POP-yuh-LAY-shun

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˌpɒp.jʊˈleɪ.ʃən/
• Respelling: POP-yuh-LAY-shun

Etymology

The word "population" originates from the Latin "populatio," meaning "a people or multitude," derived from "populus," meaning "people." It entered Middle English via Old French "population."

Derivatives

• Populous (adjective)
• Overpopulation (noun)
• Depopulation (noun)
• Population density (noun)
• Population control (noun)

Synonyms

• Inhabitants
• Demographics
• Community

Antonyms

• None

Usage

The term "population" is used in fields like demography, ecology, and sociology to study the number and characteristics of groups. For example, "The city’s population has grown significantly in the past decade" or "Scientists are monitoring the wolf population in the region."

Related Terms

• Demography: The statistical study of populations.
• Ecology: The study of organisms and their environments.
• Census: An official count of a population.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• The total number of people in an area: Refers to the number of individuals inhabiting a city, country, or region.
  • Example: "The population of the town is approximately 50,000."
• A group of organisms of the same species: Refers to a population in ecological terms.
  • Example: "The bird population has declined due to habitat loss."
• The inhabitants of a place collectively: Refers to all people living in a given area.
  • Example: "The country’s population is known for its cultural diversity."