zillahttp://www.oed.com/dictionary/zilla_n%3Ftab%3Dmeaning_and_usezilla, n.
Revised 2021

zillanoun

  1. 1772–
    In South Asia, esp. India and Bangladesh: an administrative district forming a subdivision of a province, state, or division.
    1. 1772
      The future management of the Huzzoor Zillas. [Note] Small districts near Moorshedabad.
      Extract Proc. Comm. of Circuit 20 August in 5th Rep. Comm. Secrecy State E. India Company (1773) 20
    2. 1801
      Within the zilla, or district of Calcutta.
      Asiatic Annual Register 1800 Characters 24
    3. 1886
      In Panch Maháls in the town of Dohad the fever death-rate is higher than in the zilla.
      22nd Annual Rep. Sanitary Commissioner of Bombay 1885 81
    4. 1963
      The disintegration of the States into Zillas and the formation of an uniform country through interconnection of Zilla Parishads seems impractical.
      Modern Review (India) February 109/1
    5. 2004
      When interviewed, my own respondents identified primarily with their zillah when questioned about their origin.
      Journal Southeast Asian Studies vol. 35 6
    6. 2009
      To make International Inspiration a total success, such initiatives should also be taken to the zilas, district towns and thanas.
      Dhaka Courier (Nexis) 29 October

zilla, n. was revised in March 2021.

zilla, n. was last modified in December 2024.