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Northerly Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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northerly

[ˈnɔːðərli ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adverb

direction

in or towards the north

Synonyms

northward, northwards.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
northerly

Used to describe a general direction or location towards the north, often in the context of weather and wind.

  • The wind was blowing from a northerly direction.
  • We decided to take the northerly route through the mountains.
northward

Refers to a movement or direction specifically towards the north. It is often used in travel and migration contexts.

  • They are migrating northward in search of better climates.
  • The explorers set off in a northward direction.
northwards

Similar to 'northward', it describes movement or direction towards the north, and is often interchangeable. More common in British English.

  • We drove northwards, eager to reach the coast.
  • The river flows northwards for over 200 miles.

Examples of usage

  • It's cold in the north, so the wind is blowing northerly.
  • The storm is moving in a northerly direction.
Context #2 | Adjective

wind

coming from the north

Synonyms

north, northern.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
northerly

Typically used to describe the direction of the wind or geographical position in relation to the north.

  • A cold northerly wind blew across the fields.
  • They traveled in a northerly direction for several miles.
north

Used to indicate a cardinal direction or a region located in the north. Often used in navigation and general geographic contexts.

  • We need to head north to reach the cabin.
  • The North of the country is known for its beautiful landscapes.
northern

Used to describe something that is located in or related to the north part of a region or country, or to identify a group living in the north.

  • The Northern Lights are a breathtaking phenomenon.
  • She comes from a small town in northern England.

Examples of usage

  • A northerly wind brought a chill to the air.
  • We can expect northerly gusts to continue throughout the day.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Origin of 'northerly'

The word 'northerly' originated from the Middle English word 'northerly', which is a combination of 'north' and the suffix '-erly' meaning 'in the direction of'. It has been used in the English language since the 14th century to describe things related to or coming from the north.

See also: north, northern, northerner, northernwards, northward, northwards.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranked #11,084, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.