southern
- 01 B1 Intermediate
located in or facing the south.
situated in, facing, or moving toward the south.
Simple“The southern coast of the island has the best beaches for swimming.”
In context“The southern slopes of the mountain range receive significantly more sunlight, creating a microclimate suitable for vineyards.”
UsageUsually placed before the noun it describes.
- 02 B1 Intermediate
related to the people, culture, or weather of a southern region.
pertaining to the inhabitants, culture, or geographical characteristics of a specific southern region, such as Southern Europe or the Southern US.
Simple“I love the warm hospitality and delicious food of southern states.”
In context“The author's prose is deeply rooted in southern gothic traditions, exploring the complex history of the Mississippi Delta.”
UsageOften capitalized when referring to a specific, recognized political or cultural region.
Teacher's tipRemind students that 'Southern' is capitalized when it is part of a proper name for a region, like 'Southern California'.
- 03 B2 Upper Intermediate
a wind that blows from the south.
referring to a wind originating in the south and blowing toward the north.
Simple“A warm southern wind brought higher temperatures to the city today.”
In context“The sudden shift to a southern wind cleared the morning fog, allowing the ships to finally leave the harbour.”
Teacher's tipIn English, a 'southern wind' comes FROM the south, it does not go TO the south.
Usage southern city · southern region · southern tip
English surname, from the adjective southern. Often used as a northern English nickname for someone from the south of the country, or as a Scottish nickname for an Englishman.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.