WESTWARD Meaning and
Definition
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Westward is an adverb that refers to the direction opposite to the east, indicating movement or position towards the west. It denotes a location, travel, or motion that is oriented or headed towards the west. The term is derived from the combination of the English words "west" and "-ward," which is an adverbial suffix indicating direction.
In a geographical sense, westward represents the direction that is perpendicular to the Earth's axial rotation, towards the point where the sun sets. It is the opposite of eastward and signifies a movement or position away from the rising sun. Similarly, on a map or compass, westward is aligned with the west cardinal direction or the left side when facing north.
Westward can also be used metaphorically to describe the progression or development of ideas, trends, or influences. For instance, the westward expansion in the United States during the 19th century refers to the movement of settlers, explorers, and development towards the western regions of the country.
Furthermore, westward can be employed to describe a movement or transition from a specific starting point towards the western part of a particular area. This can include anything from a journey, migration, or displacement of people, objects, or concepts to a new location situated in the western direction.
Overall, westward primarily emphasizes movement or position towards the west, whether in a physical, metaphorical, or directional context.
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Towards the west; in a direction towards the west.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Top Common Misspellings for WESTWARD *
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Other Common Misspellings for WESTWARD
Etymology of WESTWARD
The word "westward" is derived from the Middle English word "westward", which comes from the Old English words "westweard" and "westweardes". The term is a combination of the word "west", referring to the direction towards the point of the setting sun, and the suffix "-ward", which denotes a direction or destination. The Old English words can be traced back to the Germanic language family, specifically the West Germanic dialects.
Similar spelling words for WESTWARD
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