territoriality

territoriality definition - medical

ter·ri·to·ri·al·i·ty (tĕrˌĭ-tôrˌē-ălˈĭ-tē)

noun
  1. A behavior pattern in animals consisting of the occupation and defense of a territory.
  2. A similar behavior pattern in humans consisting of the tendency to defend a particular domain or sphere of influence or interest.

The American Heritage® Medical Dictionary Copyright © 2009 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. All rights reserved.

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