North Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐งญ
north
[nษหrฮธ ]
Definitions
direction
The direction that is at the top of a map, pointing towards the North Pole. It is opposite to south and is one of the four cardinal directions.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| north |
Use 'north' when speaking about a general direction or location relative to another point. It is often used in geography, navigation, and everyday language to indicate direction.
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| northern |
The term 'northern' is best used to describe something that is situated in or related to the north part of a region, country, or world. It often describes specific regions or characteristics.
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| northerly |
Use 'northerly' to describe a direction, movement, or wind that comes from or is directed towards the north. It is slightly more technical and precise than 'north'.
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Examples of usage
- The compass needle always points to the north.
- We traveled north to reach our destination.
region
The northern part of a country, region, or city.
Synonyms
northern part, northern region.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| north |
specific cardinal point on a compass, commonly used in navigation.
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| northern part |
specific section or area within a larger region, emphasizing its position relative to the whole.
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| northern region |
larger geographical division, often implying cultural or administrative distinctions; can be used in official or descriptive contexts.
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Examples of usage
- I live in the north of the city.
- She moved to the north for a cooler climate.
location
Located in or towards the north.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| north |
Can also be used in a metaphorical sense to represent upward movement or progress.
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| northern |
Relates to the northern part of a region or country. It specifies a relative position within a larger area.
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| northerly |
Describes a direction or wind coming from the north. It is often used in weather reports or navigation.
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Examples of usage
- The north side of the building gets more sunlight.
- The north entrance is closed for renovations.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Geography
- The Northern Hemisphere contains most of the world's land masses and is home to many of the world's largest cities.
- The Arctic, located in the far north, features extreme climatic conditions and unique wildlife, such as polar bears.
- Many countries, including Canada and Russia, have vast territories extending northwards, influencing their climate and culture.
Navigation
- Sailors and explorers have long used the North Star, Polaris, for navigation at night, as it is nearly aligned with the North Pole.
- Compass needles point towards magnetic north, allowing humans to navigate vast distances even on land and water.
- Various maps and globes have a 'north' orientation, affecting how people perceive global geography.
Cultural Significance
- In many cultures, north is often viewed as a symbol of winter, strength, or the unknown.
- Some traditional ceremonies or rituals are conducted facing north, signifying respect towards this direction.
- Art and literature often portray characters on quests or journeys towards the north, representing adventure and discovery.
Science
- In Earth science, the north magnetic pole is different from the geographic north pole, causing navigation challenges.
- The tilt of the Earthโs axis affects seasonal changes, particularly in northern regions, leading to distinct seasonal polar nights and midnight sun.
- Astronomy often uses 'north celestial pole' to describe the point in the sky directly above the North Pole.
Origin of 'north'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from Old English 'norรฐ,' related to Germanic languages in which similar words also mean 'north.'
- In ancient times, this direction was often associated with cold and harsh weather due to its proximity to polar regions.
- Some cultures have a mythology connected to directions, with north often symbolizing stability and strength.
The word 'north' originated from the Old English word 'norรฐ', which was derived from the Proto-Germanic word 'nurtha'. It has been used to refer to the direction opposite to south since ancient times. In various cultures, the concept of north has been associated with cold, winter, and the Arctic region. Navigators have used the North Star (Polaris) as a guide for centuries. The symbolism of north often represents wisdom, guidance, and stability.
See also: northerly, northern, northerner, northernwards, northward, northwards.