Definitions

1. noun

A county or territorial division in England, especially in the medieval period.

“The shire was an important administrative district in the Middle Ages.”

2. noun

A county or similar administrative division in a country, especially in Africa or Asia.

“The shire in South Africa was divided into smaller townships.”

3. noun

A region or area, especially one considered to be a distinct social or cultural unit.

“The rural shire was known for its close-knit community and traditional way of life.”

4. verb

Past tense of ‘shirk’, to avoid doing something unpleasant or difficult.

“Many people shirked their responsibilities and went on vacation instead.”

5. noun

A fictional region or land, especially one in a fantasy or science fiction story.

“The shire in J.R.R. Tolkien’s ‘The Lord of the Rings’ was a peaceful and idyllic place.”