- territory
- ter|ri|to|ry [ `terə,tɔri ] noun **1. ) count or uncount an area of land controlled by a particular country, leader, or army:The French army invaded the Austrian territories of Piedmont and Lombardy.occupied territory (=land controlled by enemy soldiers): They are still refusing to withdraw troops from the occupied territories.a ) count an area of land that is officially part of a country but does not have the status of a state or PROVINCE:U.S. territories and possessions2. ) count or uncount an area that an animal considers to be its own, and tries to prevent others from entering:A lion will fearlessly defend its territory and family.Male birds compete for territories and mates.a ) an area of a town or country that a person or organization is responsible for, especially as part of their work:The water company's territory covers 5,000 square miles.b ) uncount an area that belongs to or is used by someone:These two rooms are my territory, so stay out.c ) uncount an area that a player or team defends in a sport:He kicked the ball deep into Raven territory.3. ) uncount an area of knowledge, study, or experience:Social work is familiar territory to her.come/go with the territoryto be a necessary or accepted part of a situation or activity:In professional football, serious injuries come with the territory.
Usage of the words and phrases in modern English. 2013.