Meridionality refers to the characteristic or quality of being meridional, which relates to or is situated along a meridian or in the direction of north-south. Derived from the word "meridian," which is an imaginary line that runs from the North Pole to the South Pole on a globe, meridionality describes a position or orientation relative to this line. In geographical terms, it signifies the extent to which a location or region lies along this north-south axis.
The concept of meridionality can be applied to various aspects, including climate, culture, and trade routes. In terms of climate, regions situated closer to the equator tend to have a more meridional climate, marked by warmer temperatures, less seasonal variation, and a prevalence of tropical or subtropical weather conditions. Culturally, meridionality can influence the traditions, customs, and way of life of the inhabitants living in these areas, shaping their languages, cuisines, artistic expressions, and social structures.
Moreover, the term can also be associated with trade and transportation routes, as it takes into account the movement of goods and people along the north-south axis. In this context, meridionality can refer to the importance and intensity of economic activities concentrated along this line, facilitating the flow of commerce and influencing patterns of development.
Overall, meridionality denotes the extent to which a location or region aligns itself with the meridian or north-south axis, encompassing various dimensions such as climate, culture, and trade.
