# northerly

/ˈnɔɹðɝɫi/ (US) · /nˈɔːðəli/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/northerly
Updated: 2026-05-18

## Definition

coming from the north or blowing toward the north. You use this to describe the direction of the wind or the position of a place.

For teachers: originating from or blowing toward the north. Often used to describe weather patterns or geographic directions.

## Examples

- A strong northerly wind blew across the coast.
- The hikers decided to turn back because a sudden northerly gust made the path too slippery.
- The northerly jet stream shifted unexpectedly, causing a rapid drop in temperatures across the northern plains and disrupting the seasonal migration of local wildlife.

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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.