territory

An area of land that a person, animal, or group owns, controls, or claims as theirs.

• The dog defended its territory.
• The army moved into enemy territory.
• Two countries claim the same territory near the border.

Similar words: land, domain

Common phrases: enemy territory, defend territory, claim territory

A large area of land, especially one belonging to or controlled by a country.

• The island is a British territory.
• The army crossed into enemy territory.
• Several territories gained independence last century.

Similar words: region, area

Common phrases: national territory, disputed territory, overseas territory

An area of responsibility, power, or activity that someone considers their own.

• Sales is her territory.
• He felt that the new manager was invading his territory.
• Each department fiercely protected its territory during the reorganization.

Similar words: domain, province, sphere

Common phrases: someone’s territory, protect your territory, invade someone’s territory