The Collaborative International Dictionary
doctrine of the hinterland
hinterland \hin"ter*land`\, n. [G.; hinter behind + land land.] a remote and undeveloped area; originally, the land or region lying behind the coast district. The term is used esp. with reference to the so-called
doctrine of the hinterland, sometimes advanced, that occupation of the coast supports a claim to an exclusive right to occupy, from time to time, the territory lying inland of the coast.
Syn: backwoods, back country, boondocks.