windward

1 of 2

noun

wind·​ward ˈwin(d)-wərd 

: the side or direction from which the wind is blowing

windward

2 of 2

adjective

: being in or facing the direction from which the wind is blowing compare leeward

Phrases

to windward

: into or in an advantageous position

Examples of windward in a Sentence

Adjective

The windward side of the mountain was rocky and treeless.

Recent Examples on the Web

Noun

The heaviest rain is forecast for windward and mauka locations. —The Sunset Ai Lab, Sunset Magazine, 10 May 2024

For plants, such walls are edges that separate patches of ground into zones that are sunny or shady, windward or leeward, uphill or downhill, wetter or drier. —Robert M. Thorson, Discover Magazine, 9 Dec. 2023

Adjective

Coconut rhinoceros beetles were detected for the first time on islands statewide in subsequent months, while little fire ants caused serious concern on Oahu's windward coast. —CBS News, 24 Oct. 2024

For example, high-elevation terrain often forces storm systems to drop more rain on the mountains’ windward side but scientists aren’t sure whether that phenomenon might play a role in cases like Helene’s Appalachian deluge. —Meghan Bartels, Scientific American, 30 Sep. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

Noun

1549, in the meaning defined above

Adjective

1627, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing windward

• to windward

Kids Definition

windward

1 of 2 adjective

wind·​ward ˈwin-(d)wərd 

: moving or placed toward the direction from which the wind is blowing

windward

2 of 2 noun

: the side or direction from which the wind is blowing

sail to windward