Easterly: meaning, definitions and examples

Etymology

• The word comes from the Old English 'ēast', which means east, linked to the direction where the sun rises.
• In many cultures, the east symbolizes new beginnings and hope, often associated with dawn and rebirth.

Geography

• Many weather patterns, such as the trade winds, have easterly components, influencing climate and sailing routes.
• Certain regions, particularly near the coast, frequently experience easterly winds that help regulate temperatures.

Astronomy

• In astronomy, easterly refers to the position of celestial objects as they rise in the eastern sky, marking their visibility at dawn.
• The rotation of the Earth from west to east is why the sun and stars appear to move across the sky from east to west.

Cultural Significance

• In navigation and exploration, sailors often relied on easterly winds to travel to new lands, impacting trade routes and colonization.
• Sundials and other ancient timekeeping devices often align with the rising sun in the east, affirming the importance of direction in cultural practices.

Environmental Science

• Easterly winds in certain regions can lead to dry conditions, affecting local ecosystems and agricultural practices.
• In meteorology, the easterly waves are crucial for understanding tropical weather patterns, including the formation of storms.

Ranked #10,421, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.

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