northeasterly
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /nɔːrˈθiːstərli/
KK: /nɔrˈθiːstərli/
adjective
Definition
Describing something that comes from or is located in the direction of the northeast.
Example
The northeasterly winds brought cooler temperatures to the region.
Conversation
Did you notice the northeasterly winds today?
Yeah, it felt pretty chilly outside.
I think it's making the temperature drop even more.
Definitely! I should probably grab a jacket before heading out.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
northeast
eastern
oriental
Antonyms
southwesterly
south
westerly
adverb
Definition
In a direction that is toward the northeast.
Example
The wind is blowing northeasterly today, bringing cooler temperatures.
Conversation
Did you notice how the wind is blowing from the northeasterly direction today?
Yeah, it felt really chilly when I walked outside this morning.
I guess that explains why it feels so cold, huh?
Root Explanation
Northeasterly → It is formed from "north" (from Old English "norð", meaning the direction toward the North Pole) and "easterly" (from "east" which comes from Old English "ēast", meaning the direction toward the rising sun, combined with the suffix "-ly" meaning in the manner of). The word "northeasterly" describes a direction that is toward the northeast, combining the concepts of north and east.
Memory Tip
Think of the direction 'north' and the manner of 'east' to remember that 'northeasterly' refers to a direction that is toward the northeast.
Visually Confused Words
southeasterly
noreaster