Northwesterly: meaning, definitions and examples

Etymology

• The word combines 'north' and 'westerly', with 'westerly' coming from 'west' and an Old English suffix meaning 'toward'.
• The concept of cardinal directions (north, south, east, west) has been used since ancient navigation practices.
• In the 16th century, the term began appearing in maps, as explorers delineated new territories and routes.

Geography

• Northwesterly winds can impact weather patterns, often bringing cooler temperatures and precipitation in certain regions.
• Certain ecosystems, especially in the Pacific Northwest, are shaped by northwesterly streams of moist air from the ocean.
• Cities like Seattle and Portland are influenced by their northwesterly geographic position, affecting climate, culture, and lifestyle.

Navigation

• Navigators and sailors often use the northwesterly direction to plot courses across oceans, using it as a reliable reference point.
• In orienteering, a sport involving navigation through challenging terrain, knowing northwesterly can help participants find their way efficiently.
• Maritime maps reference northwesterly for sailing routes, steering crews toward safe harbors or favorable winds.

Cultural Context

• In poetry and literature, northwesterly imagery often evokes thoughts of adventure, exploration, and the unknown.
• Folklore from various cultures often describes the northwestern direction as holding mysteries or treasure, linked to exploration tales.
• In Western astrology, the northwest is sometimes associated with communication and relationships, offering insights into people's interactions.

Meteorology

• Meteorologists track northwesterly winds when forecasting storms, as they can indicate changes in weather patterns.
• Seasonal winds from the northwesterly direction can lead to substantial snowfall in mountainous regions, affecting local environments.
• The alignment of pressure systems often causes northwesterly gales, which are nothing to take lightly for coastal communities.