territorial
|ter-ri-to-ri-al|
/ˌtɛrɪˈtɔːriəl/
land ownership
Etymology
'territorial' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'territorialis,' where 'territorium' meant 'land or district.'
'territorialis' transformed into the French word 'territorial,' and eventually became the modern English word 'territorial' through Middle English.
Initially, it meant 'relating to land or district,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'relating to ownership or defense of an area.'
Meanings by Part of Speech
Adjective 1
relating to the ownership of an area of land or sea.
The territorial dispute between the two countries has been ongoing for years.
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Adjective 2
defensive about one's own area or domain.
Cats are often territorial animals, marking their space with scent.
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Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:42