northward

UK: ˈnɔːθwəd | US: ˈnɔːrθwərd

Definition

  1. adj. directed or moving toward the north

  2. adv. in a direction toward the north

Structure
north <direction toward the pole>ward <direction suffix>
Etymology

The word "northward" combines "north," derived from Old English norþ (referring to the cardinal direction), and the suffix "-ward," from Old English -weard, meaning "in the direction of." The suffix "-ward" is commonly used in English to form adjectives and adverbs indicating direction (e.g., "homeward," "forward"). The compound logically preserves the original sense of "facing or moving toward the north."

Examples

  1. The ship sailed northward along the coast.

  2. Birds migrate northward in the spring.

  3. The temperature drops as you travel northward.

  4. They moved northward to escape the heat.

  5. The road curves northward after the bridge.