Upwind Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

๐ŸŒฌ๏ธ
Add to dictionary

upwind

[หŒสŒpหˆwษชnd ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adverb

sailing

In the direction that the wind is blowing from; against the wind.

Synonyms

against the wind.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
upwind

Used when referring to a direction from which the wind is coming, especially used in sailing, kite flying, or any activities involving wind direction.

  • Let's position the tent upwind to avoid smoke blowing into it
  • Sailors need to navigate upwind to reach their destination
against the wind

Used in a more general context to describe moving or facing in the opposite direction of the wind, often used in daily life situations as well as in literary or figurative speech.

  • She was walking against the wind, struggling to keep her hat on
  • His journey was like swimming against the wind, full of constant challenges

Examples of usage

  • The boat was able to sail upwind thanks to its efficient design.
  • We need to tack upwind to reach our destination before sunset.
Context #2 | Adjective

aerodynamics

Situated or moving in the direction from which the wind is blowing; facing the wind.

Synonyms

windward.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
upwind

Use when talking about a direction opposite to the wind's direction.

  • We should set up our camp upwind to avoid the smoke.
  • The smell of flowers carried from upwind filled the air.
windward

Applicable when describing something or someone facing or located on the side from which the wind is blowing.

  • The windward side of the island is often more lush and green.
  • They moved to the windward part of the hill to get some fresh air.

Examples of usage

  • The upwind side of the building is more exposed to the elements.
  • The aircraft landed upwind to take advantage of the wind direction.
Context #3 | Noun

environmental science

The side or direction from which the wind is blowing.

Synonyms

windward side.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
upwind

Used when referring to the direction from which the wind is coming, especially in navigation or outdoor activities.

  • We need to move upwind to avoid the smoke from the campfire
  • The kite flies best when launched upwind
windward side

Refers to the side of an object or location that is facing into or against the wind, common in geographical or meteorological contexts.

  • The windward side of the island receives more rainfall
  • When building a shelter, they chose the windward side to block the wind

Examples of usage

  • The upwind pollution from the factory affected the nearby town.
  • The upwind location is ideal for wind turbines.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Navigation

  • Sailors often need to sail upwind to reach a destination directly against the wind, which involves complex maneuvers.
  • In aviation, flying upwind can influence performance and safety, as pilots adjust for wind conditions during takeoff and landing.

Environmental Science

  • Animals often seek shelter from winds, as being located upwind can expose them to harsher weather conditions.
  • In agriculture, upwind positioning can affect crop growth, as it determines moisture and temperature levels for plants.

Sports

  • In sports like sailing and kiteboarding, being upwind allows athletes to exploit wind direction to their advantage.
  • Rugby players may use upwind play to gain territory, strategizing their field position relative to the wind.

Cultural References

  • The concept of going 'upwind' appears in various literary works, symbolizing struggle or resistance against nature or challenges.
  • In music, some artists have used the term to illustrate facing difficulties, highlighting perseverance despite strong forces.

Origin of 'upwind'

Main points about word origin

  • The term 'upwind' comes from combining 'up,' meaning towards, and 'wind,' showing the direction the air is blowing.
  • The word has been used in English since the 19th century, particularly in navigation and sailing contexts.

The term 'upwind' originated in the sailing industry, where it refers to the direction from which the wind is blowing. It has since been adopted in other fields such as aerodynamics and environmental science. The concept of upwind navigation has been crucial in various activities, from sailing to aircraft landing techniques. Understanding the relationship between wind direction and movement has been essential for optimizing efficiency and safety in different industries.


See also: unwind, unwinding, wind, windbag, windbreaker, windcheater, windfall, winding, windingly, windings, window, windpipe, windproof, windward, windy.