# northbound

/ˈnɔɹθbaʊnd/ (US) · /nˈɔːθbaʊnd/ (UK) · CEFR B1 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/northbound
Updated: 2026-05-07

## Definition

moving or leading toward the north. You use this to describe a road, a vehicle, or a person's direction.

For teachers: moving, directed, or leading toward the north. Often used in the context of transport and navigation.

## Examples

- We are waiting for the northbound train.
- Heavy traffic is building up on the northbound side of the highway due to construction.
- The migratory birds follow a northbound route every spring, stopping at the same wetlands to rest before continuing their journey toward the arctic.

## Usage notes

- Typically used as an attributive adjective before a noun, but can also function as a predicative adjective after a linking verb.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.