Demographic: Definition, Meaning, and Examples

Last Updated on
July 27, 2025

1. Demographic (adjective): Relating to the statistical study of populations, especially regarding structure, distribution, and trends.
2. Demographic (noun): A specific segment or group within a population characterized by shared traits such as age, gender, income, or ethnicity.
3. Demographic (adjective): Pertaining to the characteristics or factors that define human populations.

"Demographic" pertains to the statistical characteristics of human populations, such as age, gender, income, education, and employment. It is commonly used in marketing and sociology to analyze and identify segments within a population. It is integral for understanding societal structures, consumer behavior, and resource planning. Dive deeper to explore its definitions, applications, and significance.

"Demographic" Definition: What Does "Demographic" Mean?

The term "demographic" encapsulates the study and categorization of human populations based on distinct traits. Its usage spans academic research, business strategies, and societal analyses.

Definition of "Demographic": Population Study

As an adjective, "demographic" refers to the statistical study of populations, analyzing data such as age, gender, income, or education to identify trends and patterns.

Definition of "Demographic": Population Segment

As a noun, it denotes a specific group or segment within a population sharing common characteristics, such as millennials, retirees, or urban dwellers.

Definition of "Demographic": Human Characteristics

The term also pertains to factors and characteristics that define population dynamics, such as birth rates, migration, and mortality rates.

Parts of Speech

Demographic" functions primarily as an adjective, describing aspects related to the structure of populations, as in "demographic analysis." It can also be used as a noun, referring to a particular segment of a population identified by specific characteristics, such as "the 18-24 demographic."

How to Pronounce "Demographic"?

"Demographic" is pronounced as "dem-uh-GRAF-ik." It consists of four syllables, with the emphasis on the third syllable. The first syllable "dem" sounds like "dem" in "demonstrate," the second syllable "o" is a schwa sound "uh," the third syllable "graph" is stressed and sounds like "graph" in "graphic," and the final syllable "ic" sounds like "ick."

Phonetic Pronunciation: /ˌdɛməˈɡræfɪk/

Synonyms of "Demographic": Other Ways to Say "Demographic"

Synonyms for "demographic" enrich vocabulary and provide alternative expressions in discussions about population studies.

  • Population group
  • Segment
  • Cohort
  • Target audience
  • Socioeconomic group
  • Category
  • Subdivision
  • Stratum

Antonyms of "Demographic": Other Ways to Say "Demographic"

Antonyms provide contrasting concepts to "demographic."

  • Individual
  • Person
  • Singular entity
  • Non-populational
  • Uncategorized

Examples of "Demographic" in a Sentence

Using "demographic" in different contexts showcases its versatility. Here are ten examples:

1. The census provides detailed demographic data about the nation’s population.
2. Marketers tailor their campaigns to appeal to the younger demographic.
3. The city’s demographic shift has led to changes in housing policies.
4. Each demographic has unique preferences that influence consumer trends.
5. The survey captured a wide range of demographic factors, including income and education levels.
6. Immigration policies are influenced by national demographic needs.
7. The company analyzed its customer demographic to improve product offerings.
8. Researchers studied the demographic impact of urbanization on rural communities.
9. The younger demographic is more likely to adopt new technologies quickly.
10. Advertisers consider gender as a key demographic variable in their strategies.

Frequency of Use

The word "demographic" has experienced a marked increase in usage since the mid-20th century, coinciding with advances in statistical analysis and social science research. According to corpus data, its frequency accelerated significantly in the 1960s and 1970s alongside the growth of market research and targeted advertising. In contemporary English, "demographic" appears frequently in academic journals, business publications, policy documents, and media discussions of social trends. The term has become particularly prevalent in digital marketing literature since the 2000s, as online analytics have enabled more sophisticated segmentation of audiences.

Variants of "Demographic"

The term has several variants that are adapted for specific contexts:

1. Demographics: Plural form, often used to refer collectively to data on population characteristics.
2. Demographically: Adverb form, describing actions or analyses related to population statistics.
3. Demography: The scientific study of population statistics and dynamics.

Related Terms to "Demographic"

Exploring related terms expands understanding of the broader concept of "demographic."

1. Population
2. Census
3. Statistics
4. Sociology
5. Epidemiology
6. Psychographics
7. Market segmentation
8. Socioeconomics
9. Target market
10. Geographics

Etymology: History and Origins of "Demographic"

"Demographic" is derived from the French word "démographique," which in turn originates from the Greek words "dēmos," meaning "people," and "-graphia," meaning "writing" or "description." The adjective form appeared in English around 1882, relating to the study of human populations. The noun form, referring to specific population segments, emerged later, around 1965. The evolution of "demographic" reflects the growing importance of population studies in various disciplines.

Derivatives and Compounds of "Demographic"

Here are derivatives and compounds of "demographic":

1. Demographics: Data about specific population characteristics.
2. Demographer: A specialist in demographic studies.
3. Demographic analysis: A method for examining population data.

Common Misspellings of "Demographic"

Common errors in spelling "demographic" include:

1. Demographick
2. Demograhic
3. Democraphic

10 Idioms Similar to "Demographic"

Idioms related to "demographic" add figurative layers to discussions about populations.

1. Strength in numbers
2. Birds of a feather flock together
3. A slice of the pie
4. The lay of the land
5. All walks of life
6. Breaking the mold
7. The melting pot
8. The writing on the wall
9. Going against the grain
10. In the same boat

10 Common Questions About "Demographic"

Here are answers to common questions about "demographic":

1. What does "demographic" mean?

"Demographic" refers to population statistics or a specific group within a population characterized by shared traits.

2. How is "demographic" used in marketing?

In marketing, "demographic" refers to segmenting target audiences based on traits like age, income, or interests.

3. Can "demographic" refer to individuals?

No, "demographic" typically refers to groups or segments within a population, not single individuals.

4. What is "demographic analysis"?

Demographic analysis examines population data to identify patterns, trends, and needs.

5. Why are demographics important?

Demographics help in planning, decision-making, and understanding societal changes and market dynamics.

6. What is an example of a demographic factor?

Age is a common demographic factor used in studies and market analysis.

7. What is the plural of "demographic"?

The plural form is "demographics," referring collectively to population data or statistics.

8. How is "demographic" different from "psychographic"?

"Demographic" focuses on measurable traits like age, while "psychographic" explores attitudes, interests, and behaviors.

9. Is "demographic" used in public health?

Yes, it helps assess population health needs and plan interventions.

10. What fields use demographic data?

Demographic data is vital in sociology, marketing, urban planning, and public policy.

Conclusion

"Demographic" pertains to the statistical analysis and categorization of populations, providing insights into societal structures and trends. Understanding this term is key for informed decision-making and strategic planning. Continue exploring word definitions to expand your knowledge and linguistic skills.

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