Southern Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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southern

[ˈsʌðərn ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

region

located in or characteristic of the south

Synonyms

south, southerly.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
southern

Used to describe something or someone located in or coming from the southern part of a specific region or country.

  • The southern coast of Spain is famous for its beautiful beaches
  • She speaks with a charming southern accent
southerly

Usually used to describe direction or wind that comes from the south. It often has a more formal or meteorological connotation.

  • We experienced strong southerly winds during the storm
  • The boat was drifting in a southerly direction
south

Used as a direction or location, typically referring to the southern part of the world, a country, or a city. It can also describe something moving towards this direction.

  • We are traveling south for the summer vacation
  • New Zealand is located to the south of Australia

Examples of usage

  • The southern part of the country is known for its warm climate.
  • She had a strong southern accent.
Context #2 | Adjective

direction

situated in or facing or moving toward the south

Synonyms

south, southerly.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
southern

Used to refer to something that is located in the southern part of a region, country, or the world.

  • She lives in the southern part of the city.
  • The southern states have unique cultural traditions.
southerly

Describes a direction coming from or situated in the south. Often used in weather reports or navigation.

  • There was a strong southerly wind blowing.
  • We traveled in a southerly direction.
south

Indicates direction or location towards the south. Often used in navigation or describing geographical positions.

  • The town is just south of the river.
  • Mexico is south of the United States.

Examples of usage

  • We took a trip to the southern part of the state.
  • The compass needle pointed south.

Translations

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

Origin of 'southern'

The word 'southern' originates from the Old English word 'suthern' which means situated in the south. It has been used to describe regions, directions, and characteristics related to the south since the Middle Ages. The term 'southern' is commonly used in geography, meteorology, and cultural contexts to refer to areas or aspects associated with the southern part of a region or country.


See also: south, southerly, southpaw, southward, southwards.

Word Frequency Rank

This word ranks #1,787, placing it within important intermediate vocabulary. Learning it will significantly improve your ability to express yourself in English.