Northeast: meaning, definitions and examples

🧭
Add to dictionary

northeast

 

[ ˌnɔrˈθiːst ]

Noun / Adjective
Context #1 | Noun

geographical region

The term 'northeast' refers to a specific direction or region located to the northeast of a particular point. In geographical terms, it is often used to identify one of the four cardinal directions, commonly represented on maps. The northeast can also refer to a specific area within a country, such as the Northeast region of the United States, which includes states like New York and Massachusetts. The concept is crucial in navigation and orientation, helping individuals and entities to define locations relative to one another.

Synonyms

NE, northeastern region, northerly-east

Examples of usage

  • The northeast of the country is known for its mountains.
  • We took a trip to the northeast last summer.
  • The storm is moving from the northwest to the northeast.
Context #2 | Adjective

directional descriptor

As an adjective, 'northeast' describes something that is situated or oriented toward the northeast direction. This can pertain to geographical features, travel directions, or even climate patterns. For instance, one might discuss the 'northeast winds' which prevail in certain areas during specific seasons. The term is instrumental in navigation, providing a clear indicator of orientation.

Synonyms

eastern northern, northeasterly

Examples of usage

  • The northeast corner of the room is particularly cold.
  • They took a northeast route to avoid traffic.
  • Northeast facing windows allow for more sunlight.

Translations

Translations of the word "northeast" in other languages:

🇵🇹 nordeste

🇮🇳 उत्तर-पूर्व

🇩🇪 Nordosten

🇮🇩 timur laut

🇺🇦 північний схід

🇵🇱 północny wschód

🇯🇵 北東

🇫🇷 nord-est

🇪🇸 noreste

🇹🇷 kuzeydoğu

🇰🇷 북동쪽

🇸🇦 شمال شرق

🇨🇿 severovýchod

🇸🇰 severovýchod

🇨🇳 东北

🇸🇮 severovzhod

🇮🇸 norðaust

🇰🇿 солтүстік-шығыс

🇬🇪 ჩრდილო-აღმოსავლეთი

🇦🇿 şimal-şərq

🇲🇽 noreste

Etymology

The word 'northeast' is a compound of two elements: 'north' and 'east'. The term 'north' originates from Old English 'norþ', which can be traced back to Proto-Germanic *naurþa-, meaning 'to the left of the sunrise' in ancient context. Likewise, 'east' comes from the Old English 'ēast', which has etymological roots in Proto-Germanic *aust- and is related to the word 'east' in various Germanic languages. Historically, the combination of these two directional terms has been utilized since around the 14th century to give precise navigational information. The duality encapsulated in 'northeast' reflects not only the cardinal points of a compass but also cultural significance in exploration and geographical categorization, especially relevant in cartography and navigation.