north-northwest

noun

north-north·​west ˈnȯrth-ˌnȯr(th)-ˈwest How to pronounce north-northwest (audio)
: a compass point that is two points west of due north : N22°30′W

Examples of north-northwest in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The earthquake's epicenter was about 4 miles north-northwest of Pinnacles and occurred at a depth of 3 miles. — Ca Earthquake Bot, Sacbee.com, 11 Aug. 2026 Rain chances drop on Sunday as the deep moisture shifts north-northwest. — Richard Tribou, The Orlando Sentinel, 7 Aug. 2026 Tropical Storm Arthur is 20 miles north-northwest of Matagorda, Texas and 195 miles west-southwest of Lake Charles, Louisiana. — Miami Herald Hurricane Bot, Miami Herald, 17 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for north-northwest

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of north-northwest was in the 14th century

Rhymes for north-northwest

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Browse Nearby Words

north-northeast
north-northwest
north of
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“North-northwest.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/north-northwest. Accessed 16 Aug. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on north-northwest

Nglish: Translation of north-northwest for Spanish Speakers

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