northward
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /ˈnɔːrθwərd/
KK: /ˈnɔrθwərd/
adjective
Definition
In the direction of the north; moving or situated toward the north.
Example
The birds flew northward as winter approached.
Conversation
Are you planning to travel northward this summer?
Yeah, I think it would be great to explore the mountains up there.
That sounds awesome! I love the idea of going northward for cooler weather.
Me too! It'll be a nice break from the heat.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
northern
upward
arctic
Antonyms
southern
downward
equatorial
adverb
Definition
In the direction of the north.
Example
The birds flew northward as winter approached.
Conversation
Are you planning to travel northward this summer?
Yeah, I'm thinking about visiting some national parks up there.
That sounds amazing! I hear the views are breathtaking when you go northward.
noun
Definition
A direction or area that is towards the north.
Example
The birds flew northward as winter approached.
Conversation
Have you ever thought about traveling northward this summer?
I have! It sounds like a great adventure to explore new places.
Yeah, I hear the scenery gets really beautiful the further northward you go.
Root Explanation
Northward → It is formed from "north" (from Old English "norð", meaning the direction toward the North Pole) and "-ward" (meaning in the direction of). The word "northward" means in the direction of the north.
Memory Tip
Think of heading 'toward' ('-ward') the 'north' — that's why northward means moving in the direction of the north.
Visually Confused Words
worthward
norward
norwards
norwestward
norard