Definition

Describing a boat's ability to sail very close to the direction from which the wind is coming, without being pushed sideways.

Example

The weatherly sailboat glided smoothly across the water, barely drifting off course.

Conversation

Have you seen the new sailboat they bought?

Yeah, I heard it's really weatherly and can handle tough winds.

That's impressive! I can't wait to see it in action.

Me too! It should be fun to watch it sail close to the wind.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Weatherly → The word is formed from "weather" (from Old English *weder*, meaning atmospheric conditions) and the suffix "-ly" (meaning in a manner of). Thus, "weatherly" describes something that is in a manner related to the weather.

Memory Tip

Think of the word 'weather' and remember that 'weatherly' means in a manner related to the atmospheric conditions.

Visually Confused Words