windward

1 of 2

noun

wind·​ward ˈwin(d)-wərd How to pronounce windward (audio)
Synonyms of windwardnext
: the side or direction from which the wind is blowing
see also:
to windward

windward

2 of 2

adjective

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

Examples of windward in a Sentence

Adjective The windward side of the mountain was rocky and treeless.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Noun
Wind gusts will be particularly strong along windward ridges and exposed coastal headlands. — Ca Weather Bot, Sacbee.com, 1 Jan. 2026 The heaviest rain is forecast for windward and mauka locations. — The Sunset Ai Lab, Sunset Magazine, 10 May 2024
Adjective
Wind gusts will be particularly strong along windward ridges and exposed coastal headlands. — Ca Weather Bot, Sacbee.com, 3 Nov. 2025 Total structural failure is likely near the path of Melissa, especially in higher elevation areas where wind speeds atop and on the windward sides of hills and mountains could be up to 30 percent stronger. — Miami Herald Hurricane Bot, Miami Herald, 28 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for windward

Word History

First Known Use

Noun

circa 1550, in the meaning defined above

Adjective

1615, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of windward was circa 1550

Phrases Containing windward

Browse Nearby Words

wind vane
windward
Windward Islands
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Windward.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/windward. Accessed 8 Jul. 2026.

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Kids Definition

windward

1 of 2 adjective
wind·​ward ˈwin-(d)wərd How to pronounce windward (audio)
: 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

More from Merriam-Webster on windward

Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for windward

Nglish: Translation of windward for Spanish Speakers

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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