down East

[ doun eest ]

noun

1. New England.
2. the state of Maine.
3. Canadian. the Atlantic Provinces.

adverb

1. in, to, or into New England.
2. in, to, or into the state of Maine.
3. Canadian. in, to, or into the Atlantic Provinces.

Word History and Origins

Origin of down East¹

An Americanism dating back to 1810–20

Example Sentences

Down East Maine and Atlantic Canada were expected to bear the storm’s brunt just three weeks after being hit by Tropical Storm Lee.

From Seattle Times

The state’s eastern coast — known as the Down East region — and the coast of Nova Scotia and New Brunswick were expected to bear the brunt of the storm, though the track could shift before the system arrives, Fode said.

From Washington Times

The state’s eastern coast — known as the Down East region — and the coast of Nova Scotia and New Brunswick were expected to bear the brunt of the storm, though the track could shift before the system arrives, Fode said.

From Seattle Times

While Lee will cause trouble across New England, it’s tracking toward Down East Maine — as the state’s easternmost regions are known — and Atlantic Canada.

From Seattle Times

For all the natural beauty, life is not perfect here in Down East Maine.

From Seattle Times