Standard Industrial Classification

**Semantic type:** Classification

**Definition:** A code scheme established to promote uniformity and comparability of data collected and published by agencies within the U.S. government, state agencies, trade associations, and research organizations. It was developed as an establishment based industry classification system that classified each establishment (defined as a single physical location at which economic activity occurs) according to its primary activity. The SIC covered the entire field of economic activities by defining industries in accordance with the composition and structure of the economy. It has been replaced by the North American Industry Classification System (NAICS).

**Synonyms:** - SIC