Definition

1. Noun:
   • The side toward the wind; the direction from which the wind is blowing: The position or side that is facing the oncoming wind.

Usage

The term "to windward" is used to describe a location, position, or direction relative to the wind. It is primarily a nautical term but can be applied in other contexts involving wind direction, such as aviation or meteorology. It indicates the upwind side.

Examples

• Noun:
  • The sailor moved to windward to adjust the sails. (The sailor moved to the side facing the wind.)
  • The small island provided shelter to windward of the storm. (The island was positioned on the side from which the storm winds were coming, offering protection.)
  • In sailing strategy, it is advantageous to be to windward of your competitor. (Having a position closer to the wind's source is a tactical benefit.)

Advanced Usage

• "To get to windward of (something/someone)": To gain a position of advantage or control relative to a situation or person, analogous to the nautical advantage.
  • The company tried to get to windward of the scandal by issuing an immediate apology. (The company tried to gain a controlling or advantageous position regarding the scandal.)

Variants and Related Words

• Windward (adjective/noun): Pertaining to or situated on the side facing the wind. Often used as the base form.
  • The windward side of the mountain receives more rain.
• Leeward (adjective/noun): The opposite side; the side sheltered from the wind.
  • We anchored on the leeward side of the bay.

Synonyms

• Upwind: In or toward the direction from which the wind is blowing.
• Weather side: A traditional nautical synonym for the side exposed to the wind or weather.

Related Phrases

• Beat to windward: To sail against the wind by tacking (sailing in a zigzag pattern).
  • The ship beat to windward for hours before reaching the harbor.
• Hold an advantage to windward: To maintain a strategically superior position relative to the wind's direction.
  • The racing yacht held an advantage to windward for the entire leg of the race.

Noun

1. the side toward the wind