windward

1 of 2

noun

wind·​ward ˈwin(d)-wərd 

: the side or direction from which the wind is blowing

see also:

to windward

windward

2 of 2

adjective

: being in or facing the direction from which the wind is blowing compare leeward

Examples of windward in a Sentence

Adjective

The windward side of the mountain was rocky and treeless.

Recent Examples on the Web

Noun

But Giles Scott closed the door on Brazil, with Goodison clipping the turning mark with the tip of his windward foil below the surface. — Andrew Rice, New York Times, 22 June 2026

Most of the time, the winds come from the northeast and Hawaii’s mountains keep the majority of precipitation on that windward side. — Evan Bush, NBC news, 20 Mar. 2026

Adjective

Wind gusts will be particularly strong along windward ridges and exposed coastal headlands. — Ca Weather Bot, Sacbee.com, 3 Nov. 2025

Total structural failure is likely near the path of Melissa, especially in higher elevation areas where wind speeds atop and on the windward sides of hills and mountains could be up to 30 percent stronger. — Miami Herald Hurricane Bot, Miami Herald, 28 Oct. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

Noun

circa 1550, in the meaning defined above

Adjective

1615, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing windward

• to windward

Kids Definition

windward

1 of 2 adjective

wind·​ward ˈwin-(d)wərd 

: moving or placed toward the direction from which the wind is blowing

windward

2 of 2 noun

: the side or direction from which the wind is blowing

sail to windward