# township

/ˈtaʊnʃɪp/ (US) · /tˈaʊnʃɪp/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/township
Updated: 2026-06-20

## Senses

### 1. South African residential area

noun · CEFR B2

in South Africa, an urban area that was originally created for Black, Coloured, or Indian people to live in.

For teachers: in South Africa, an urban residential area historically designated for non-white occupation under apartheid; often remains a distinct socio-economic unit.

- Many people in the township commute to the city centre for work every morning.
- The government has invested in new infrastructure to improve living conditions within the township, though many residents still face significant economic challenges.

Usage: Often used in a historical or socio-political context regarding South African urban planning.

### 2. North American land division

noun · CEFR C1 · American English · Technical

in the US and Canada, a small area of land that is part of a larger county.

For teachers: a unit of local government or a land survey square, typically six miles on each side, used as a subdivision of a county.

- The local township board meets once a month to discuss road repairs.
- The property is located in a rural township where land use is strictly regulated to preserve the local farming heritage.

Usage: Common in administrative, legal, and real estate contexts in North America.

### 3. small town

noun · CEFR B2 · Dialect

in Australia and New Zealand, a very small town.

For teachers: a small town or settlement, often serving as a local hub for a surrounding rural area.

- We stopped at a quiet township to buy petrol and some snacks.
- The historic township has become a popular destination for tourists seeking to experience the atmosphere of the early gold-mining era.

Teaching tip: While 'town' is universal, 'township' in Australia specifically implies a very small, often rural, community.

## Examples

- The local township council meets every Tuesday to discuss road repairs.
- After the new law passed, the rural township gained more control over its own school funding and zoning.
- The historical development of the township reflects broader patterns of migration and the administrative challenges of managing rapidly expanding suburban peripheries.

---

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.