A shire is a historical term used to describe a division of land, often associated with rural areas in England. Traditionally, shires were governed by a local official known as a shire reeve, or sheriff, who was responsible for maintaining law and order. Each shire typically included several towns and villages, serving as a local administrative unit. In modern times, the term "shire" is still used in the names of various counties, particularly in England and Australia. Shires often emphasize their rural character and community-oriented governance, providing local services and representation for residents.