# southbound

/ˈsaʊθˌbaʊnd/ (US) · /sˈaʊθbaʊnd/ (UK) · CEFR B1 · Adjective

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

## Definition

moving or leading toward the south. You use this to describe a road, a train, or a person traveling in that direction.

For teachers: moving, leading, or facing toward the south. Often used attributively before a noun or predicatively after a linking verb.

## Examples

- We are currently on the southbound train.
- Heavy traffic is building up on the southbound lanes of the highway due to construction.
- The migratory birds began their southbound journey as the first signs of autumn appeared in the northern forests.

## Usage notes

- Typically placed before the noun it modifies, though it can follow a linking verb like 'be' or 'head'.

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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.