northwesterly
northwesterly Lexical Profile
northwesterly Game Scores & Validity
• adjective
Directed or moving toward the northwest, or situated in the northwest.
"The expedition followed a northwesterly course along the river valley."
Blowing or coming from the northwest (used especially of winds, gales, or ocean currents).
"A brisk northwesterly breeze cooled the harbor in the late afternoon."
• adverb
Toward the northwest, or from the northwest.
"The migrating flock flew northwesterly across the coastal plains."
• noun
A wind or storm that blows from the northwest.
"A strong northwesterly swept across the bay, bringing cooler air and rough seas."
Word Nuance & Usage
When describing winds or ocean currents, 'northwesterly' refers to a flow originating from the northwest and moving toward the southeast, whereas when describing travel or movement, it means heading toward the northwest.