Definition

The side of something that is closest to the observer or the Earth, often used to refer to the Moon or the left side of a vehicle.

Example

The astronaut took a picture of the nearside of the Moon during the mission.

Conversation

Did you see how the nearside of the Moon looked last night?

Yeah, it was stunning! I love how bright it gets.

I always find it fascinating how we can only see the nearside from Earth.

Right? It makes you wonder what the other side looks like.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Nearsides is formed from "near" (from Old English *neah*, meaning close) and "side" (from Old English *side*, meaning a position or surface). The word "nearside" refers to the side that is closest or nearest to something.

Memory Tip

Think of something that is 'close' ('near') and the 'side' it is on — that's why 'nearside' means the closest side.

Visually Confused Words