noun

territory

An area controlled by a person, group, or government, or associated with an activity.

The army guards the border to protect the country's territory.

Etymology

The Latin word names a district of land. English broadened it to areas under control or associated with a particular activity.

More examples

  • Our sales team covers a territory that includes three counties.
  • The cat keeps other cats out of its territory.
  • The island is a U.S. territory with its own local government.

Forms

territory · territories

territorial adjective — Relating to an area claimed or controlled.

Similar words

region
Describes an area without necessarily implying ownership or control.
district
Usually describes an area designated for administration or particular activities.
domain
Emphasizes someone's authority or expertise, not necessarily over physical land.