Definition

1. Adverb:
   • In the direction of the coast: Moving or facing toward the shoreline from a point inland or out at sea.

Usage

• The adverb "coastward" describes the direction of movement or orientation. It is typically used in nautical, geographical, or travel contexts.
• It often follows a verb of motion (e.g., , , , ).

Examples

• Adverb:
  • The storm forced the fishing boats to turn coastward for safety.
  • We hiked coastward until we could see the ocean.
  • Migrating birds often fly coastward in the autumn.

Advanced Usage

• "coastward" as an adjective: While primarily an adverb, "coastward" can sometimes function as an adjective meaning "facing or directed toward the coast." This usage is less common.
  • The ship's coastward progress was slowed by the headwind. (Here, "coastward" describes the noun "progress".)

Variants and Related Words

• Coastwards (adverb): A less common variant with identical meaning to "coastward."
  • The river flows coastwards.
• Coastal (adjective): Relating to or located near a coast.
  • coastal towns
• Seaward (adverb, adjective): In the direction of the sea, opposite of coastward.
  • They gazed seaward.

Synonyms

• Shoreward (adverb): Toward the shore.
• Landward (adverb): Toward the land (can be synonymous when approaching from the sea).

Antonyms

• Seaward (adverb): In the direction of the sea.
• Offshore (adverb): Away from the shore.

Adverb

1. in the direction of the coast