shire

n. a traditional name for a county or administrative area in the UK.

n. a traditional administrative district in the United Kingdom, historically governed by a sheriff and often appearing as a suffix in county names.

“He grew up in a quiet shire in the middle of England.”

“The historical boundaries of the shire have remained largely unchanged since the eleventh century, despite modern administrative reorganisations.”

British English

n. the rural parts of England, away from the big cities.

n. the rural or provincial parts of central and southern England, often implying a traditional or conservative social environment.

“Many people moved from London to the shires to find a slower pace of life.”

“Political commentators often look to the shires to gauge the mood of traditional conservative voters before a general election.”

British English · Informal

n. a very large and strong breed of horse used for pulling heavy loads.

n. a large, powerful breed of British draught horse, typically bay, black, or grey with feathered legs.

“The farmer used a pair of shires to pull the heavy wooden cart.”

“Although machinery has replaced them in industry, the shire remains a popular sight at agricultural shows across the country.”

British English · Technical