north

UK: nɔːθ | US: nɔːrθ

Definition

  1. n. the direction toward the point of the horizon 90° counterclockwise from east

  2. adj. situated in or facing the north

  3. adv. to or toward the north

Structure
nor <old english "norð">th <direction suffix>
Etymology

The word "north" traces back to Old English norð, derived from Proto-Germanic nurtha-, meaning "left" or "below" (as north was to the left when facing the rising sun). The suffix -th solidified its role as a directional term. Over time, it retained its core meaning of cardinal direction while expanding into adjectival and adverbial uses.

Examples

  1. The wind blew fiercely from the north.

  2. They traveled north to escape the winter.

  3. The north side of the building gets less sunlight.

  4. Canada lies to the north of the United States.

  5. The compass needle pointed steadily toward the north.