# Durham

/ˈdɝəm/ (US) · CEFR B2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/durham
Updated: 2026-05-02

## Definition

a historic city in northeast England known for its famous cathedral and university. It is also the name of several other cities and regions around the world, including in the United States.

For teachers: a historic cathedral city and ceremonial county in North East England; also refers to several municipalities and administrative regions in North America. When referring to the English city, it is frequently associated with its Norman cathedral and collegiate traditions.

## Examples

- We spent the weekend exploring the old streets of Durham.
- The university in Durham is one of the oldest and most prestigious higher education institutions in the United Kingdom.
- While the English city of Durham is defined by its medieval peninsula and Romanesque architecture, its namesakes in North Carolina and Ontario have evolved into significant hubs for research and regional administration.

## Usage notes

- Usually functions as a proper noun and is therefore capitalized. In the UK, it can refer to both the city and the wider county (County Durham).

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.