southwesterly
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: //saʊθˈwɛstərli//
KK: /sɑʊθˈwɛstərli/
adjective
Definition
Describing something that comes from or is located in the direction of the southwest.
Example
The wind was blowing in a southwesterly direction, bringing warm air from the ocean.
Conversation
Did you notice the southwesterly winds today?
Yeah, they really picked up in the afternoon!
I love how they bring a bit of warmth with them.
Absolutely! It makes the weather so much nicer.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
southwest
westerly
downwind
Antonyms
northeasterly
easterly
upwind
adverb
Definition
In the direction of the southwest.
Example
The wind blew southwesterly, bringing warmer temperatures.
Conversation
Did you notice the wind is blowing southwesterly today?
Yeah, I felt it on my way to the park this morning.
I think it's going to get stronger as the day goes on.
Root Explanation
Southwesterly is formed from "south" (from Old English "sūþ", meaning the direction toward the south) and "west" (from Old English "west", meaning the direction toward the west) combined with the suffix "-erly" (meaning in the manner of or relating to). The word describes a direction that is toward the southwest, combining the two cardinal directions.
Memory Tip
Think of the direction 'south' and 'west' coming together, and remember that 'southwesterly' means relating to the direction that is between south and west.
Visually Confused Words
northwesterly
souwester