prevailing wind
Definition
Noun The most frequent or dominant direction from which the wind blows in a particular region or over a specific area.
Usage
The term "prevailing wind" is used to describe the characteristic, most common wind pattern for a location. It is a key concept in meteorology, climatology, sailing, and urban planning. * The prevailing wind in this coastal city comes from the ocean, bringing cool air in the summer. * Farmers plant windbreaks based on the direction of the prevailing wind to protect their crops. * Sailors historically relied on knowledge of prevailing winds for trade routes.
Advanced Usage
- "The prevailing wind" is often personified or treated as a consistent force shaping the environment.
- The ancient trees were sculpted into bent shapes by the relentless prevailing wind.
- It can be used metaphorically to describe a dominant trend or influence in a non-physical context.
- In the company, the prevailing wind of opinion is shifting towards more sustainable practices.
Variants and Related Words
- Prevailing (Adjective): Most common, usual, or widespread.
- The prevailing theory has been challenged by new evidence.
- Windward (Adjective/Adverb/Noun): On or toward the side from which the wind is blowing (facing the prevailing wind).
- The windward side of the island receives the most rain.
- Leeward (Adjective/Adverb/Noun): On or toward the side sheltered from the wind (away from the prevailing wind).
- We anchored in the leeward bay for protection.
Synonyms
- Dominant wind
- Primary wind
- Characteristic wind
Related Phrases
- Trade winds: A specific pattern of reliable prevailing easterly winds found in the tropics.
- The trade winds facilitated exploration across the Atlantic Ocean.
- Westerlies: The prevailing winds from the west in the mid-latitudes.
- The Westerlies drive weather systems across North America.
- Wind pattern: A more general term for how winds typically behave in an area.
Noun
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the predominant wind direction
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the prevailing wind is from the southwest
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