Definition

Proper noun: * The Windward Islands: A specific geographical and political grouping of islands in the southeastern Caribbean Sea, forming the southern part of the Lesser Antilles arc. They are called "windward" because they are more exposed to the prevailing northeasterly trade winds than the Leeward Islands to the north.

Usage

• The term is used as a proper noun to refer to this specific island chain. It is often preceded by the definite article "the".
• Example: "Our cruise will stop at several ports in the Windward Islands."
• Example: "The volcanic geology of the Windward Islands differs from the coral islands further north."

Advanced Usage

• In a meteorological or sailing context, "windward" describes the side or direction from which the wind is blowing. The islands' name is derived from this general nautical term.
• Example (nautical term): "The ship struggled to sail on the windward side of the island." (Here, 'windward' is an adjective, not part of the proper noun 'Windward Islands').

Variants and Related Words

• Windward Isles: A less common but synonymous name for the same island group.
• The Lesser Antilles: The broader archipelago to which the Windward Islands belong.
• The Leeward Islands: The group of islands north of the Windward Islands in the Lesser Antilles chain.

Synonyms

• There are no true synonyms for this proper noun as it is a specific place name. It can be described as a Caribbean island group or the southern Lesser Antilles.

Related Phrases

• To be in the lee of the Windward Islands: A nautical phrase meaning to be on the side of the islands sheltered from the prevailing wind.
• Windward Islands cricket team: A sports team representing several of these islands in international cricket.

Noun

1. a group of islands in the southeastern West Indies; the southern part of the Lesser Antilles