English Reference
adjective · noun

territorial

adj. · n.
US /ˌtɛɹɪˈtɔɹiəɫ/ UK /tˌɛɹɪtˈɔːɹɪəl/ ter·ri·to·ri·al

  1. 01 B2 Upper Intermediate Science

    adj.behaving in a way that shows you want to protect your own area from others.

    adj.displaying territoriality; defensive of a specific geographic area against intruders.

    Simple

    Male birds often become very territorial during the spring to protect their nests.

    In context

    The species is known for its highly territorial nature, with males engaging in complex vocal displays to ward off potential rivals from their feeding grounds.

  2. 02 B2 Upper Intermediate

    adj.relating to a specific piece of land or a particular country.

    adj.of or relating to a specific geographic area or territory.

    Simple

    The two countries are currently involved in a territorial dispute over the islands.

    In context

    The treaty aimed to resolve long-standing territorial claims that had hindered economic cooperation between the neighbouring states for decades.

  3. 03 C1 Advanced British English

    n.a member of a military force that is usually only active for home defence.

    n.a non-professional member of a territorial army or home defence force.

    Simple

    He spent his weekends training as a territorial in the local regiment.

    In context

    The battalion was largely composed of territorials who were mobilised rapidly following the declaration of the national emergency.

    reservist

The gulf is not within the territorial United States.

The Conversation· 28 Aug 2026

Coventry will not have the same territorial control or volume of chances they enjoyed last season either – they need players who can get them up the pitch.

The Guardian· 14 Aug 2026
This entry
Level B2 · Upper Intermediate
Frequency Frequent
Updated