Definition

Proper noun A large federal territory in northwestern Canada, originally a much larger region that has been subdivided over time. Part of its former area now constitutes the territory of Nunavut.

Usage

"Northwest Territories" is used as the official name of a Canadian territory. It is typically preceded by the definite article "the".

Examples

• The capital of the Northwest Territories is Yellowknife.
• The Northwest Territories is known for its vast wilderness and northern lights.
• Mining is an important industry in the Northwest Territories.

Advanced Usage

• The abbreviation N.W.T. or NWT is commonly used.
  • The license plate from the NWT features a polar bear.

Variants and Related Words

• Northwest Territories and Yukon Branch: A historical administrative division.
• Former Northwest Territories: Refers to the much larger historical territory before the creation of several provinces and other territories.

Synonyms

• NWT (Abbreviation)
• The Territories (Informal, historical, or contextual; can also refer to other northern territories)

Notes on Different Meanings

This term has a specific geographical and political meaning. It does not have a general descriptive meaning outside of its use as a proper noun for this Canadian territory. The historical "North-West Territories" (often hyphenated) was a much larger region encompassing areas that are now Canadian provinces.

Noun

1. a large territory in northwestern Canada; part is now Nunavut