territory

/ˈtɛrəˌtɔri/
noun
  1. An area of land that is controlled by a particular country, ruler, or group.
    • This island was once a territory of the British Empire.
    • The explorers claimed the new territory for their king.
    • The two countries argued over the border territory.
  2. An area that an animal or person considers as their own and defends against others.
    • Dogs often mark their territory by urinating on trees.
    • Bears have a large territory that they patrol for food.
    • The lioness chased another cat out of her territory.
  3. An area of knowledge, activity, or experience that someone is familiar with or responsible for.
    • That topic is outside the territory of this class.
    • Quantum physics is not my territory, so I can't help you.
    • Dealing with angry customers is part of a manager's territory.
  4. A part of the United States or other country that is not a state but has its own government.
    • The territory voted on whether to become independent.
    • Residents of the territory cannot vote in national elections.
    • Puerto Rico is a U.S. territory, not a state.
Synonyms
What does "territory" mean? | whatsthatwordmean | whatsthatwordmean