COUNTY, noun [Latin See Count.]

1. Originally, an earldom; the district or territory of a count or earl. Now, a circuit or particular portion of a state or kingdom, separated from the rest of the territory, for certain purposes in the administration of justice. It is called also a shire. [See Shire.] Each county has its sheriff and its court, with other officers employed in the administration of justice and the execution of the laws. In England there are fifty two counties, and in each is a Lord Lieutenant, who has command of the militia. The several states of America are divided by law into counties, in each of which is a county court of inferior jurisdiction; and in each, the supreme court of the state holds stated sessions.

2. A count; an earl or lord.

COUNTY court, the court whose jurisdiction is limited to a county whose powers, in America, depend on statutes. In England, it is incident to the jurisdiction of the sheriff.

COUNTY palatine, in England, is a county distinguished by particular privileges; so called a palatio, the palace, because the owner had originally royal powers, or the same powers in the administration of justice, as the king had in his palace; but their powers are not abridged. The counties palatine, in England, are Lancaster, Chester and Durham.

COUNTY corporate, is a county invested with particular privileges by charter or royal grant; as London, York, Bristol, etc.

COUNTY, adjective Pertaining to a county; as county court.