large number of children; bearing many children
Typically used in demographic or policy contexts, often contrasted with 少子 (しょうし, 'few children'). Refers to having many children per family or a high birth rate.
See also: 少子
Support for households with many children has been expanded.
Policies encouraging larger families are being discussed as a measure against the declining birthrate.
multiple birth
Compound of 多 (た, 'many') and 子 (し, 'child'). The reading たし follows standard on'yomi. The term is relatively modern and used mainly in sociological or policy discussions.