northwest

UK: ˌnɔːθˈwest | US: ˌnɔːrθˈwest

Definition

  1. n. the direction or region midway between north and west

  2. adj. situated in or toward the northwest

  3. adv. toward the northwest

Structure
north <direction toward the North Pole>west <direction toward the sunset>
Etymology

The word "northwest" is a straightforward compound of "north" and "west," both derived from Old English. "North" traces back to Proto-Germanic nurþrą, linked to the ancient concept of the "left side" when facing the rising sun. "West" originates from Proto-Germanic westrą, meaning "evening" or "direction of the sunset." Combined, "northwest" logically denotes the intermediate direction between these two cardinal points, reflecting early Germanic spatial orientation.

Examples

  1. The storm is moving toward the northwest.

  2. They built a cabin in the northwest corner of the property.

  3. The wind shifted to a northwest breeze.

  4. Seattle is a major city in the northwest United States.

  5. Hike northwest to reach the summit.