# ulster

/ˈəɫstɝ/ (US) · /ˈʌlstɐ/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/ulster
Updated: 2026-08-15

## Senses

### 1. Irish province

noun · CEFR B2

the northern province of Ireland, consisting of nine counties.

For teachers: the northernmost of the four traditional provinces of Ireland, comprising nine counties, six of which are in Northern Ireland and three in the Republic of Ireland.

- Belfast is the largest city in the province of Ulster.
- The cultural history of Ulster is distinct from the rest of the island, shaped by centuries of migration and industrial development.

### 3. a heavy coat

noun · CEFR C2 · Archaic

a long, loose, heavy coat made of thick wool, often worn in winter.

For teachers: a long, loose-fitting overcoat made of heavy fabric, traditionally featuring a cape-like attachment over the shoulders.

- He wrapped his thick ulster around him to hide from the freezing wind.
- The detective was easily recognized by his heavy woollen ulster and the distinctive way he turned up the collar against the rain.

## Examples

- Ulster is the northern province of Ireland.
- The flag of Ulster features a red hand on a white background with a cross.
- Political tensions in Ulster have shaped the history of the island for centuries, dividing communities along religious and national lines.

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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.