leeward

[ lee-werd; Nautical loo-erd ]

adjective

1. pertaining to, situated in, or moving toward the quarter toward which the wind blows ( windward ).

noun

1. the lee side; the point or quarter toward which the wind blows.

adverb

1. toward the lee.

leeward

/ ˈluːəd; ˈliːwəd /

adjective

1. of, in, or moving to the quarter towards which the wind blows

noun

1. the point or quarter towards which the wind blows
2. the side towards the lee

adverb

1. towards the lee

Other Words From

• leeward·ly adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of leeward¹

First recorded in 1540–50; lee + -ward

Example Sentences

My father was clambering to get us leeward against capsize when my mother took to the starboard bow.

From Salon

The center warned winter visitors heading out Friday or Saturday morning that they could trigger an avalanche on the leeward aspects, or downwind-facing terrain, near the treeline, “especially in steep, exposed terrain.”

From Los Angeles Times

“Although an area of showers is moving over the islands this morning, it has not brought significant rainfall to leeward areas,” the latest weather service warning said.

From Seattle Times

Henken was injured during the third fleet race Saturday when the American catamaran crashed off its foils and buried the leeward hull in the water.

From Washington Times

The agency issued a Red Flag Warning for the leeward sides of the Hawaiian Islands through Thursday afternoon.

From Seattle Times