Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /ˌtɛrɪˈtɔːriəl/
KK: /tɛrɪˈtɔriəl/
Definition
Relating to a specific area or region, often involving the defense or control of that area.
Example
The animals are very territorial and will defend their space from others.
Conversation

Did you hear about the territorial disputes in the news?

Yeah, it sounds so complicated and intense.

It really does! It's interesting how people can be so territorial over land.

I know, right? It makes you think about how borders affect relationships.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
regional
defensive
jurisdictional
Antonyms
unrestricted
nomadic
dispersed
Definition
A person who is part of a military unit that is organized to defend a specific area or region.
Example
He served as a territorial in the local army unit.
Conversation

Did you hear about the new territorial unit forming in the city?

Yeah, I read something about it; it sounds interesting!

I wonder what kind of training those territorial members will go through.
Root Explanation
Territorial → It is formed from "territorium" (from Latin, meaning land or earth) and "-al" (meaning relating to). The word "territorial" refers to something that relates to land or a specific area.
Memory Tip
Think of 'territorium' which means land, and remember that 'territorial' describes something related to a specific area or land.
Visually Confused Words
exterritorial
subterritorial
preterritorial
nonterritorial
exterritorially
tritoral
servitorial
escritorial