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 contained several towns and villages, serving as a local administrative unit. In modern times, the term "shire" is still used in some regions, particularly in Australia and New Zealand, to denote local government areas. Shires often focus on community services, land management, and local infrastructure, helping to maintain the quality of life for residents in these regions.