WINDWARD Meaning and
Definition
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Windward is an adjective that describes the direction or side from which the wind is coming. It is the opposite of leeward. The term is commonly used in nautical and aviation contexts, but it can also be applied to any situation where wind direction is a significant factor.
In sailing, windward refers to the side of a boat or ship that is facing into the wind. It is the direction toward which the wind is blowing, and therefore, the side that experiences the full force of the wind. This is particularly important in sailing because the windward side of a vessel tends to be much more turbulent and unstable compared to the leeward side.
In aviation, windward refers to the direction that an aircraft is facing as it encounters the wind. If an aircraft is flying into the wind, it is said to be flying windward. This is significant in terms of airspeed, as the windward direction can either impede or assist the aircraft's progress depending on whether it is flying with or against the wind.
Beyond maritime and aviation contexts, windward can also be used metaphorically to describe any situation or side that faces challenges or difficulties head-on. For example, in a business venture, the windward side may refer to the side that faces the most competition or obstacles. Overall, windward primarily signifies the direction from which the wind is coming and is essential for understanding and navigating through various environments.
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• The direction from which the wind blows.
• Being on the side toward the direction from which the wind blows.
• Toward the wind; in the wind's eye, in the direct point from which the wind blows; between wind and water, in that part of a ship's side or bottom which is frequently brought above the water by the rolling of the ship or by the fluctuating of the water; down the wind, in the direction of and moving with the wind; three sheets in the wind, unsteady from hard drinking; to be in the wind, to be in secret preparation; to be within the reach of suspicion though not announced or acknowledged; to be moving about, as news, though not publicly announced; to carry the wind, to toss the nose as high as the ears, as a horse; to raise the wind, to procure money; to take or get wind, to be divulged; to become public; to take or have the wind, to gain or have the advantage; to take the wind out of one's sails, to circumvent, coming, as it were, between the wind and another; to bring down.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for WINDWARD
Etymology of WINDWARD
The word "windward" originated from Middle English "windwarde", which can be traced back to the Old English "windweard", composed of "wind" meaning "air in motion" and "weard" meaning "towards" or "in the direction of". The term "windward" was first recorded in the early 14th century and has retained the same meaning ever since, referring to the direction from which the wind blows.
Idioms with the word WINDWARD
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to windward of
The idiom "to windward of" refers to being in a favorable position relative to something or someone. It originates from the nautical phraseology, where "windward" denotes the direction from which the wind is blowing. In this context, being "to windward of" means being upwind or in a position closer to the source of the wind. This idiom is commonly used metaphorically to indicate being in a more advantageous or superior position compared to others.
Similar spelling words for WINDWARD
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