Domain

Definition

Domain refers to an area of territory owned or controlled by a ruler or government. It can also describe a sphere of activity, influence, or knowledge, and in the context of the internet, it refers to a web address or a set of websites under a particular name.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /doʊˈmeɪn/
• Respelling: doh-MAYN

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /dəˈmeɪn/
• Respelling: duh-MAYN

The pronunciation of "domain" differs slightly between American and British English, with variations in the initial vowel sound.

Etymology

The word "domain" comes from the Old French word "demaine," meaning "estate" or "property." It has Latin roots in the word "dominium," which means "ownership" or "lordship." The word entered the English language in the Middle Ages and originally referred to land or property owned by a lord or ruler. Over time, its meaning expanded to include areas of knowledge, influence, and control, including its modern usage in technology to describe internet domains.

Derivatives

• Domain name (noun)
• Domain-specific (adjective)
• Domain controller (noun)
• Subdomain (noun)
• Public domain (noun)

Synonyms

• Territory
• Realm
• Field

Antonyms

• None

Usage

The word "domain" is widely used in both technical and non-technical contexts. It can describe physical land or territory controlled by a person or government, as well as areas of knowledge or expertise, such as "the domain of science." In technology, a "domain" refers to a website address or network of websites under a specific name or control, such as "example.com."

Related Terms

• Jurisdiction: The official power to make legal decisions and judgments.
• Field: An area of study or expertise.
• Property: A thing or things belonging to someone, often referring to land or buildings.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• An area of land or property owned by someone: Refers to physical territories controlled by a person, government, or organization.
  • Example: "The king's domain stretched across the entire valley."
• A sphere of knowledge or activity: Refers to a particular area of influence, expertise, or control.
  • Example: "The professor's research is in the domain of artificial intelligence."
• In internet technology, a domain is an address where websites can be accessed: Refers to the unique name or address used to identify a website or group of websites on the internet.
  • Example: "The company purchased a new domain for its website."