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Word

domain

noun C1
UK /ˌdəʊˈmeɪ̯n/
US /ˌdoʊ̯ˈmeɪ̯n/

Meanings

noun

a particular area of knowledge, activity, or influence

domain: a particular area of knowledge, activity, or influence
noun

a territory or area controlled or ruled by someone or something

domain: a territory or area controlled or ruled by someone or something
noun

the main part of an internet address (for example, the part that ends in .com, .org, or a country code)

domain: the main part of an internet address (for example, the part that ends in .com, .org, or a country code)

Definition

A domain is an area of knowledge, activity, or authority, or a specific website address ending such as .com.

A domain can mean a particular field or sphere, such as science, art, or someone’s area of responsibility. It can also refer to territory or land controlled by a person or group. In computing, a domain is the main part of an internet address and can also mean a network that shares rules for access and security. The context usually makes clear which meaning is intended.

Examples

  • Her domain is computational linguistics, and she’s known for explaining complex ideas with unusual clarity.
  • In the domain of public health, small changes in communication can dramatically improve trust.
  • Their domain stretched from the mountains to the coast, linking dozens of villages by trade routes.
  • I bought the domain years ago, but I only built the site once I had a clear editorial plan.

Common mistake

Learners often confuse domain with dominion and use it to mean “power” rather than “a field” or “a territory” (or an internet address).