Definition

Noun: 1. A compass point: Specifically, the compass point that is one point (11.25 degrees) south of due west. This is a precise navigational direction.

Usage

• This term is used primarily in navigation, cartography, and meteorology to indicate a very specific bearing or wind direction.
• It is an abbreviation for "west by south."
• Example:
• Example:

Advanced Usage

• In formal navigation logs or weather reports, abbreviations like WbS or wbs are standard for conciseness.
• It is part of a 32-point compass rose, which divides the circle into 32 directional points.

Variants and Related Words

• West by south: The full, unabbreviated form of "wbs."
• Compass point: The general category for terms like north, northeast, wbs, etc.
• Bearing: A direction expressed in degrees from north, which is a more modern and precise system than point names like "wbs."

Synonyms

• West by south: The direct, non-abbreviated synonym.
• 258.75 degrees: The equivalent bearing in the 360-degree system (where North is 0/360 degrees, West is 270 degrees, and one point south is 11.25 degrees, so 270 + 11.25 = 281.25? Correction: One point of due west. West is 270°. Moving south means increasing the angle. One point is 11.25°. Therefore, 270° + 11.25° = 281.25°). Note: The precise bearing for "west by south" (WbS) is 258.75°, not 281.25°. The calculation is: West is 270°. One point south from west is 270° - 11.25° = 258.75°. The synonym is 258.75 degrees.

Notes on Meaning

• This is a highly technical term with a single, specific meaning related to direction.
• It is not commonly used in everyday conversation, where cardinal directions (north, south, east, west) or degree bearings are preferred.
• Understanding this term requires knowledge of the traditional 32-point compass system.

Noun

1. the compass point that is one point south of due west