close to the wind

phrase

: as nearly as possible against the main force of the wind

Word History

First Known Use

1625, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of close to the wind was in 1625

Rhymes for close to the wind

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Browse Nearby Words

close to the vest
close to the wind
closet queen
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Cite this Entry

“Close to the wind.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/close%20to%20the%20wind. Accessed 26 Aug. 2026.

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Last Updated: - Definition revised
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