Langimage
English

county

|coun-ty|

B2

/ˈkaʊnti/

territorial division

Etymology
Etymology Information

'county' originates from Old French, specifically the word 'conté,' where 'comté' meant 'jurisdiction of a count.'

Historical Evolution

'conté' transformed into the Middle English word 'counte,' and eventually became the modern English word 'county.'

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'jurisdiction of a count,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'territorial division.'

Meanings by Part of Speech

Noun 1

a territorial division within a state or country, typically functioning as an administrative or political unit.

The county council is responsible for local services.

Synonyms

Noun 2

the people living in a county.

The county turned out in large numbers for the festival.

Synonyms

Last updated: 2025/06/24 18:12