noun
autonomous prefecture; autonomous region
Refers to a subnational administrative division with a degree of self-governance, often used for regions in China, Russia, or Spain. The exact English translation depends on the country's terminology.
中国には新疆ウイグル自治区のほかに、自治州もいくつかある。
In China, besides the Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region, there are also several autonomous prefectures.
スペインのカタルーニャ自治州は独自の言語と文化を
The autonomous community of Catalonia in Spain has its own language and culture.
Compound of 自治 (self-government) and 州 (state/province). The term is a modern coinage used to translate administrative divisions in various countries.